Creamy Homemade Classic Coleslaw

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Chilling Time: 30–60 minutes

• Total Time: 50–80 minutes

• Servings: 6–8

• Difficulty: Easy

• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw Salad

• ½ medium head green cabbage (about 5 cups shredded)

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated

• ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped

• ¼ red onion, finely chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage.

2. Wash the cabbage thoroughly and dry it.

3. Cut the cabbage into quarters.

4. Remove the hard central core.

5. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or grater.

6. Peel and grate the carrots.

7. Wash and finely chop the green bell pepper.

8. Finely dice the red onion.

Step 2: Combine the Vegetables

1. Place shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add grated carrots.

3. Add chopped green bell pepper.

4. Add finely diced red onion.

5. Toss everything together gently.

6. Make sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

1. Take a separate medium-sized bowl.

2. Add mayonnaise.

3. Add sour cream.

4. Add granulated sugar.

5. Pour in apple cider vinegar.

6. Add fresh lemon juice.

7. Add Dijon mustard.

8. Season with salt, black pepper and garlic powder.

9. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Dressing and Vegetables

1. Pour the creamy dressing over the shredded vegetables.

2. Use a large spoon or spatula to mix.

3. Toss until all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.

4. Scrape the sides of the bowl.

5. Taste and adjust sugar, vinegar or salt as desired.

Step 5: Chill the Coleslaw

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

2. Place it in the refrigerator.

3. Chill for at least 30–60 minutes.

4. Stir gently before serving.

Chilling allows the vegetables to absorb the delicious dressing and develops a much better flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the coleslaw to a clean serving bowl.

2. Sprinkle a little black pepper on top.

3. Garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired.

4. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergy note: Check mayonnaise, mustard and other packaged ingredients for nut cross-contact. This recipe contains egg and dairy in the suggested dressing.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Use fresh cabbage: Fresh, crisp cabbage gives the best crunchy texture.

2. Shred finely: Thinly shredded vegetables absorb dressing more evenly.

3. Don’t overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid making the salad watery.

4. Balance the flavor: Add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for extra tang.

5. Chill before serving: Refrigeration improves the overall flavor.

6. Keep it crunchy: For maximum crunch, add the dressing shortly before serving.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Best enjoyed within 2–3 days.

• Stir before serving.

• Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

• Freezing is not recommended because mayonnaise dressing and cabbage can lose their texture.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this creamy coleslaw with:

• Crispy fried chicken

• Grilled chicken

• Beef burgers

• BBQ ribs

• Pulled pork sandwiches

• Fish and chips

• Grilled vegetables

• Hot dogs and sandwiches

Final Result

A beautiful bowl of creamy homemade coleslaw with crunchy green cabbage, sweet shredded carrots, fresh bell peppers and a rich, smooth dressing.

Every bite is creamy, refreshing, slightly sweet and tangy. It’s an easy, budget-friendly side dish that makes any meal extra special!