Classic Creamy Coleslaw with Tangy Dressing

If you’re looking for a simple side dish that goes with just about everything, my Creamy Coleslaw is a must-try. This version keeps it classic with fresh, crunchy cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the kind of coleslaw that works for everything from backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners.

For more side dishes, check out my Olive Salad, Classic Potato Salad, and my Best Tossed Salad Recipe.

Coleslaw is another of those recipes that has so many different varieties.  Some creamy, some vinegary, and some with lots of added vegetables.  I like mine with just good, fresh cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing.  I prefer using dried onions because I think it gives a more salty, savory flavor to the dressing.  Coleslaw is the perfect side dish to summer meals, and of course, a great topping to a pulled pork sandwich!!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, tangy, and super easy to make.
• No chopping onions—dried onions give great flavor with zero tears.
• Pairs with almost anything from grilled chicken to pulled pork.

Ingredients Needed

• Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and tang. You can use white vinegar instead.
• Shredded cabbage: crisp and fresh. I shred the cabbage myself using a box grater, but you could also use pre-shredded cabbage.
• Dried onions: For a savory punch without the sharpness of raw onion. You could use fresh instead.
• Mayonnaise: I like to use full-fat, but use light if you prefer.
• Honey: Balances out the acidity. Maple syrup would also work.
• Salt: Use liberally. Cabbage needs a lot of salt.
• Cajun seasoning and pepper: Gives the slaw a gentle kick.

How to Make Creamy Coleslaw

For the full printable recipe, check out the recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Add apple cider vinegar to a small mixing bowl and sprinkle dried onions over the top. Stir together and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in mayonnaise, honey, seasoned salt, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper.
3. Add shredded cabbage to a large mixing bowl, stir in dressing, and mix well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. Stir again before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Pre-shredded cabbage makes this recipe even faster—just be sure it’s shredded finely and it looks fresh and not too dry.
• If the coleslaw feels a tad dry after chilling, stir in another spoonful of mayo or some sour cream before serving.
• This coleslaw tastes best after the flavors have had time to meld, so don’t skip the chilling time.

Storage Information

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead: Great to make the night before so the flavors really have time to soak in. Store in a bowl and cover with clingfilm (especially if you don’t enjoy a fridge that smells like onion)

Serving Suggestions

• We love this served alongside Pulled Pork
• It makes for the perfect BBQ Side for ribs and any grilled meat or burgers.
• Alongside fish or shrimp tacos, or as a topping to add crunch and contrast.
• In a Wrap: Try it in a veggie or grilled chicken wrap.

Variations

• Add in some finely sliced celery, shredded carrots, or purple cabbage for a pop of color.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill.
• Swap Cajun seasoning for smoked Spanish paprika or some chipotle chili powder.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.

Frequently Asked Questions:

More Sides for your BBQ

• Steakhouse Wedge Salad
• BBQ Green Beans
• 5-Bean Baked Beans

Creamy Coleslaw

Recipe by Pennie Saadallah

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

0

minutes

Calories

82

kcal

Total time

15

minutes

If you're looking for a simple side dish that goes with just about everything, my Creamy Coleslaw is a must-try. This version keeps it classic with fresh, crunchy cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the kind of coleslaw that works for everything from backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded cabbage

• Dressing:

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp dried onions

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tsp honey

• 1/4 tsp seasoned salt

• 1/4 tsp Cajun seasoning

• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Directions

• Add apple cider vinegar to a small mixing bowl and sprinkle dried onions over the top. Stir together and let sit for 10 minutes.
• Stir in mayonnaise, honey, seasoned salt, Cajun seasoning and black pepper.
• Add shredded cabbage to a large mixing bowl, stir in dressing and mix well.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. Stir again before serving.

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