Sweet Coleslaw is the kind of dish that invites you to dive right in, with its crunchy cabbage and colorful veggies mingling together like old friends at a barbecue. Picture this: a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds while the crisp textures provide a satisfying crunch. light summer side dishes Whether it graces your picnic table or sits proudly beside your summer grill feast, this vibrant side dish is sure to steal the show and leave everyone humming with delight. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing cucumber salad recipe recipe.
I remember the first time I made Sweet Coleslaw—my family was skeptical at first, convinced that cabbage was just a sad vegetable. But after one bite, they were converts! Now it’s become a staple at every family gathering. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it not just a side, but a star attraction at any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sweet Coleslaw is incredibly easy to whip up with minimal prep time
- Its delightful flavor balance will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The vivid colors make it visually appealing, perfect for any festive occasion
- Plus, it’s highly versatile; enjoy it as a side or on sandwiches!
I once brought this Sweet Coleslaw to a potluck, and let me tell you, it vanished faster than I could say “seconds, please!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cabbage: Use fresh green cabbage for that perfect crunch; purple cabbage adds stunning color too.
Carrots: Grate them fresh for sweetness; baby carrots work if you’re in a hurry.
Mayonnaise: Go for full-fat mayo for creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds tanginess; use fresh lemon juice if you prefer.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tang; adjust to your taste preference.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skip these!
Optional Add-ins: Consider raisins or chopped apples for an extra layer of sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Vegetables: Start by chopping half a head of green cabbage into thin strips. You want those crunchy pieces that will give your coleslaw its trademark texture!
Grate Carrots: Grab 2-3 medium-sized carrots and grate them finely. Their natural sweetness complements the cabbage beautifully and gives your coleslaw some vibrant color.
Create the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary; it’s all about finding that perfect balance!
Toss Everything Together: In another large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage and grated carrots. Pour in the dressing and toss everything well until all pieces are coated evenly—your arms might get tired from all that tossing!
Chill Before Serving: Let your Sweet Coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully—plus, cold coleslaw is just more refreshing!
Serve and Enjoy!: Once chilled, give it one last stir before serving. Dish out generous portions alongside grilled meats or as part of a sandwich—it’s about to be everyone’s favorite!
Now you’re ready to impress friends and family with this easy-to-make Sweet Coleslaw! It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter—and maybe even some dancing if you’re lucky! grilled chicken to enjoy with coleslaw.
You Must Know
- Sweet coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a crunchy, tangy delight that adds vibrancy to any meal
- The balance of sweetness from the dressing and the crunch from the cabbage creates a delightful texture
- This colorful dish can elevate a simple barbecue or picnic into a feast
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Gather all your ingredients before you start. Chop your veggies first, then mix the dressing separately for even flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cabbage for kale or add fruits like apples or pineapples for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sweet coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating as it’s best enjoyed cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the freshest flavor, use crisp cabbage and let it sit with the dressing before serving
- Avoid over-mixing to keep that crunchy texture intact
- A splash of vinegar can brighten the flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall taste profile of your sweet coleslaw
Sharing this sweet coleslaw recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues where my family would devour it before I could even serve myself! perfect pairing for coleslaw.
FAQ
What is sweet coleslaw made of?
Sweet coleslaw typically consists of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing with sugar. zesty sauces for coleslaw.
Can I make sweet coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare sweet coleslaw a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
How long does sweet coleslaw last?
Properly stored, sweet coleslaw lasts about three days in the refrigerator without losing its crunch.
Sweet Coleslaw
- Total Time: 21 minute
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Sweet Coleslaw is a delightful blend of crunchy cabbage and vibrant veggies, dressed in a creamy, tangy sauce. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a colorful and flavorful addition. With its balance of sweetness and tanginess, Sweet Coleslaw is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or chopped apples
Instructions
- Chop the green cabbage into thin strips and grate the carrots.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until well-coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled alongside grilled meats or in sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let the coleslaw sit longer in the fridge. Feel free to substitute cabbage with kale or add fruits like apples or pineapples for a unique twist.
