Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

This Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe is a must-try for any gathering or cookout! Its perfect blend of crisp cabbage and sweet carrots, enveloped in a creamy dressing, makes it an unbeatable side dish. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this coleslaw is sure to impress. With its unique balance of flavors and textures, this recipe stands out from the rest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious coleslaw in no time.
• Flavorful dressing: The homemade creamy dressing combines sweetness with tanginess, elevating the taste.
• Versatile side dish: Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or even as a topping for sandwiches and tacos.
• Fresh ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables like cabbage and carrots for that satisfying crunch.
• Easily customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk: This tool helps create a smooth dressing by blending the ingredients seamlessly.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping your vegetables evenly, ensuring a better texture in your coleslaw.

Ingredients

This classic and easy Coleslaw Recipe is made with crisp cabbage and carrots in a creamy, sweet and tangy homemade dressing!

For the Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise (we prefer to use full fat for the best flavor and texture)
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice (fresh is best)
• 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground celery seed

For the Slaw

• 1/3 cup minced red onion
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 8 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
• 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
• 2 cups thinly shredded carrots

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare

1. Make sure onion, parsley, cabbages, and carrots are chopped/sliced/shredded.
2. Gather a large mixing bowl (one that has a lid is great; otherwise you’ll need some foil or plastic wrap).

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. To the large mixing bowl, add mayo, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed.
2. Whisk until smooth and combined.

Step 3: Toss and Combine

1. To the bowl, add onion, parsley, green cabbage, red cabbage, and shredded carrots.
2. Toss until well combined and coated.

Step 4: Chill

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or longer if you prefer a softer coleslaw.

Step 5: Serve

1. Before serving, toss/stir coleslaw once more to redistribute dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl.
2. Then serve chilled with a sprinkle of extra pepper if desired.

How to Serve Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, this coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your plate.

With Grilled Meats

• Barbecue Chicken: The sweet and tangy flavors balance well with the smoky taste of grilled chicken.
• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: This coleslaw provides a crisp contrast to tender pulled pork, enhancing each bite.
• Steak Tacos: A scoop of coleslaw adds crunch and flavor to your tacos, making them even more delicious.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• Sandwich Platter: Serve coleslaw alongside an assortment of sandwiches for a delightful picnic experience.
• Burgers: Top your burger with some coleslaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Hot Dogs: Add a spoonful of coleslaw to hot dogs for a tasty twist on this classic treat.

With Salads

• Green Salad: Pair your coleslaw with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pasta Salad: The creamy textures work well together, making each bite satisfying.

How to Perfect Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

To achieve the best Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold choice of cabbage: Use both green and red cabbage for color and flavor contrast.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Always opt for fresh vegetables; they enhance the overall taste and texture.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the coleslaw to chill improves its flavor as the ingredients meld together.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your preference for sweetness.
• Add crunch: Consider mixing in other veggies like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.
• Herb infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for additional depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some options that complement its flavors perfectly:

1. Cornbread: A sweet, crumbly cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, balancing the tanginess of the coleslaw.
2. Baked Beans: The rich flavors of baked beans create a wonderful contrast with the crispness of coleslaw.
3. Potato Salad: This classic side dish brings creaminess that harmonizes well with the crunchy texture of your coleslaw.
4. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides comfort alongside the refreshing crunch of coleslaw.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add depth while letting the freshness of the coleslaw shine through.
6. Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken pairs well with the sweet-tangy profile, making it an ideal match.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coleslaw seems simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cabbage: Different types of cabbage have varying textures and flavors. Stick to green and red cabbage for the best results in this Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe.
• Not chilling long enough: Skipping the chill time can lead to a watery coleslaw. Allow at least 2 hours in the fridge so the flavors meld beautifully.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make your coleslaw soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed for the desired creaminess.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull the flavor. Don’t skip on salt, pepper, or celery seed; these enhance the taste of your Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe.
• Chopping veggies unevenly: Uneven cuts lead to inconsistent texture. Make sure all vegetables are sliced or shredded uniformly for a balanced bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Ensure it is kept cold to maintain freshness.

Freezing Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container, but expect changes in crunchiness upon thawing.
• Consume within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish for about 10 minutes, covered.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed but not hot.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat while stirring constantly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of sweetness from sugar and tanginess from lemon juice and vinegar, creating a delightful flavor profile that complements many dishes.

Can I customize this Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like apples, raisins, or nuts for added flavor and texture. Experiment with different herbs too!

How long does coleslaw stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days. After that, it may begin to lose its crispness.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan alternative such as cashew cream or store-bought vegan mayo for a plant-based version of this coleslaw.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread, it’s sure to please. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of our Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw Recipe, a must-have side dish perfect for any occasion. This coleslaw features a delightful combination of crisp green and red cabbage, vibrant carrots, and a creamy homemade dressing that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess. Its satisfying crunch and vibrant colors make it an irresistible addition to summer barbecues, picnics, or even as a topping for sandwiches and tacos. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this quick and easy recipe is customizable to suit your taste preferences. Impress your guests with this classic dish that elevates any meal!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground celery seed
• 1/3 cup minced red onion
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 8 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
• 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
• 2 cups thinly shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare all vegetables by chopping or shredding them as needed.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, and mix until smooth.
3. Add the prepared vegetables (cabbage, carrots) to the bowl and toss until well coated.
4. Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, giving it a good stir before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg