This Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw is the perfect side dish for your BBQs! It’s crunchy, colorful, and has just the right balance of sweetness and a little zing that pairs well with grilled food.
Whenever I make this coleslaw, it disappears fast! I love how easy it is; just chop, mix, and let it chill. Great for picnics too—who doesn’t love a refreshing side?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green and red cabbage make this coleslaw colorful and crunchy. If you’re short on red cabbage, you can use all green cabbage or even other leafy greens like kale. Just make sure to chop them finely for a good texture.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color. You can substitute with pre-shredded bagged carrots or use other root veggies like shredded sweet potatoes for a twist.
Mayonnaise: It’s a key ingredient for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. You could also try vegan mayo if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Honey: This adds sweetness to the dressing. Maple syrup is a good alternative if you want a vegan option or simply prefer its flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It provides tanginess. You can swap it with white vinegar, but be careful as it might be a bit sharper; start with a little less. Lemon juice also works well for a fresh citrus twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Is Crisp and Fresh?
To keep your coleslaw crunchy and fresh, start by salting the cabbage lightly before mixing. Here’s how:
- After shredding the cabbage, sprinkle it with a bit of salt and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out moisture.
- Rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove excess salt, then dry it well using paper towels or a salad spinner.
This step helps prevent a soggy coleslaw and makes sure you get that perfect crunch!
Also, always refrigerate your coleslaw for at least an hour after mixing. This allows the flavors to blend and the vegetables to firm up again. Enjoy your BBQ with this delicious, refreshing side!
Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe for BBQs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw only takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So overall, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including chilling time. It’s quick and easy to whip up for your BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced red onion. Stir them together to distribute everything evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to make sure that all the vegetables are nicely coated in the dressing.
4. Chill the Coleslaw:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors come together and makes the coleslaw refreshing to serve.
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the coleslaw another toss to mix any dressing that may have settled. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding extra salt, pepper, or a touch more vinegar or honey if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the coleslaw chilled as a delicious and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with your BBQ favorites. Enjoy your cookout!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and refrigerate it. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier when serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version. Just keep the ratio the same for best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but note that the veggies might soften a bit over time. Give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your coleslaw. You can add diced apples, raisins, or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dressing if needed to balance the sweetness!
