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Fresh Creamy Coleslaw Recipe with Tangy Apple Cider Dressing Made Easy

fresh creamy coleslaw - featured image

A fresh and creamy coleslaw with a tangy apple cider dressing that balances creaminess and brightness, perfect for quick side dishes and barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10-15 minutes): Wash the cabbage and carrots thoroughly. Remove any wilted outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, then slice thinly into shreds (about 4 cups). Julienne or shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Thinly slice the red onion. Toss these in a large bowl with the chopped parsley.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and celery seed if using. Whisk until smooth and glossy. If too thick, add a teaspoon of water or more vinegar for extra tang.
  3. Combine & Toss (2-3 minutes): Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies. Toss gently but thoroughly with tongs or two large spoons until every bit of cabbage and carrot is coated.
  4. Rest Before Serving (optional but recommended, 30 minutes): Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld without making veggies soggy.
  5. Final Taste & Adjust: Stir and taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, honey, or vinegar as desired.

Notes

Do not overdress the coleslaw to avoid sogginess. Letting the coleslaw rest in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances flavor melding and texture. Use fresh cabbage for best results. Adjust sweetness and acidity to taste. For dairy-free, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, apple cider dressing, tangy coleslaw, easy side dish, picnic recipe, barbecue side, fresh salad