Sarah BrownWhen the summer heat rolls in, grilling season comes alive. You fire up the barbecue, lay out fresh vegetables, and bring out the meats.
But what about a side dish that brings a little crunch and zing?
That’s where quick and easy coleslaw steps in, ready to complement your grilled foods with its refreshing taste. Imagine it paired with juicy burgers, crispy fried chicken, or even a smoky pulled pork sandwich.
Each bite delivers a crunchy, creamy contrast that’s downright delightful. It’s colorful, it’s healthy, and best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make.
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What Is Quick and Easy Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a salad dish consisting primarily of finely shredded raw cabbage and dressed most commonly with a vinaigrette or mayonnaise.
The beauty of coleslaw lies in its versatility. With a few tweaks in ingredients, you can take it anywhere from tangy to sweet, from basic cabbage to exotic slaws featuring colorful, crunchy veggies.
Today, we’re focusing on a quick recipe that cuts down on prep time while maximizing flavor—making it ideal for those who love to entertain without all the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
This quick coleslaw utilizes pre-shredded coleslaw mix, which saves time and effort. When you’re in the kitchen juggling multiple tasks, the last thing you want is to spend ages slicing cabbage.
The balance of creamy mayonnaise with a bit of tang from apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard adds depth to the flavors. The hint of sweetness from honey and granulated sugar brings everything together.
A sprinkle of salt and pepper brings out the freshness of the ingredients. It’s foolproof!
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gather these simple ingredients to get started:
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 16 oz bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
– 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
– 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– A pinch of additional salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Quick and Easy Coleslaw
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation. This part is a piece of cake—like coleslaw should be!
Step 1: Combine the Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar. Don’t rush this step—making sure everything is well blended results in a smooth, creamy dressing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some optional spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Seasoning
To the dressing, add granulated sugar, sea salt, and black pepper. This mixture should have a subtly sweet yet tangy flavor. Sometimes, a little taste test is a great way to determine if you need more salt or sugar.
Remember, it’s okay if the dressing tastes strong on its own; it’ll mellow out once you mix in the coleslaw.
Step 3: Combine the Coleslaw Mix
Take your bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix and dump it into the bowl with the dressing. Using a spatula, fold the mix into the dressing. Make sure the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. The vibrant colors will grab your attention, and you’ll know you’re onto something good.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
After mixing, give a quick taste. If needed, sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper. This is the part where you can personalize the flavor; add in more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for added tang.
Step 5: Chill
Cover your coleslaw with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Letting the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, nothing beats a chilled dish on a hot summer day.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After the coleslaw has chilled, give it another good mix. It’s now ready to be served up alongside your favorite grilled delights. The taste will leave your friends and family asking for seconds.
Tips for the Perfect Coleslaw
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients always make a difference in taste. If you have fresh cabbage, go for it! You can shred it yourself for an even crunchier texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chopped apples, raisins, or sunflower seeds for a twist in flavor and texture.
- Taste Test: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness and tang to your liking. A little more honey or vinegar can go a long way.
- Chilling Time: Allowing the coleslaw to chill makes the flavor even better. If you can, prepare it a few hours or even the day before serving.
- Keep It Crunchy: Avoid adding any wet ingredients, like tomatoes, too early, as they can make the mix soggy. Add those kind of ingredients right before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover coleslaw can last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. The cabbage may get a bit softer over time, but the flavor remains intact.
If you’re planning to keep it for more than a day or two, consider leaving out certain elements—like adding any fresh herbs or toss-ins until you’re ready to eat.
How Would I Recommend Serving Quick and Easy Coleslaw?
- As a Classic BBQ Side Dish: There’s nothing like coleslaw alongside barbecue ribs or grilled chicken. The crispness adds a refreshing contrast.
- In Tacos: Use coleslaw as a topping for fish or pulled pork tacos. Its crunch and flavor can elevate your taco game.
- On Sandwiches: Layer it onto a pulled pork or fried chicken sandwich. It adds texture and moisture, making each bite a delight.
- With Grilled Vegetables: A plate of grilled veggies paired with coleslaw brings colorful and healthy vibrance to your table. It’s appealing both for taste and presentation.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
- Mayo Alternative: If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace creamy mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It’s thick, creamy, and adds a protein boost.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Instead of honey, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup. These substitutes provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile.
- Dijon Mustard Alternatives: If Dijon isn’t in your pantry, regular yellow mustard can work in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
- Vinegar Options: While apple cider vinegar is recommended, rice vinegar or white wine vinegar can also work well. Each type brings its unique touch of acidity.
Quick And Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Equipment
- plastic wrap
Ingredients
- – 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- – 1 tablespoon honey
- – 1 16 oz bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix cabbage and carrots
- – 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- – 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- – 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- – 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- – 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- – A pinch of additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation. This part is a piece of cake—like coleslaw should be!
Step 1: Combine the Dressing
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar. Don’t rush this step—making sure everything is well blended results in a smooth, creamy dressing.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some optional spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Seasoning
- To the dressing, add granulated sugar, sea salt, and black pepper. This mixture should have a subtly sweet yet tangy flavor. Sometimes, a little taste test is a great way to determine if you need more salt or sugar.
- Remember, it’s okay if the dressing tastes strong on its own; it’ll mellow out once you mix in the coleslaw.
Step 3: Combine the Coleslaw Mix
- Take your bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix and dump it into the bowl with the dressing. Using a spatula, fold the mix into the dressing. Make sure the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. The vibrant colors will grab your attention, and you’ll know you’re onto something good.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
- After mixing, give a quick taste. If needed, sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper. This is the part where you can personalize the flavor; add in more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for added tang.
Step 5: Chill
- Cover your coleslaw with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Letting the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, nothing beats a chilled dish on a hot summer day.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- After the coleslaw has chilled, give it another good mix. It’s now ready to be served up alongside your favorite grilled delights. The taste will leave your friends and family asking for seconds.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients always make a difference in taste. If you have fresh cabbage, go for it! You can shred it yourself for an even crunchier texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chopped apples, raisins, or sunflower seeds for a twist in flavor and texture.
- Taste Test: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness and tang to your liking. A little more honey or vinegar can go a long way.
- Chilling Time: Allowing the coleslaw to chill makes the flavor even better. If you can, prepare it a few hours or even the day before serving.
- Keep It Crunchy: Avoid adding any wet ingredients, like tomatoes, too early, as they can make the mix soggy. Add those kind of ingredients right before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making coleslaw a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to keep it in the fridge until serving time.
2. Is coleslaw good for meal prep?
Yes! This coleslaw holds up well in the fridge and can be portioned out for lunches or dinner sides throughout the week.
3. How do I make it vegan?
To make coleslaw vegan, replace mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or silken tofu blended until smooth. Use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
4. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Sure! Green cabbage is classic, but you could certainly use red cabbage for a pop of color. Napa cabbage also works well for a slightly different texture.
5. What are some common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is using too much dressing, which can make it soggy. Start with less dressing and add more to achieve your desired taste.
6. Can I freeze coleslaw?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cabbage will suffer once thawed. It’s always best fresh!
Conclusion
Now that you have all the tools and tips to make quick and easy coleslaw, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!
This dish is a wonderful way to add a refreshing crunch to your summer meals. It’s approachable for anyone—whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey.
By utilizing pre-shredded coleslaw mix and a simple dressing, you save time while still achieving fantastic taste. So, fire up that grill, toss together this coleslaw, and enjoy the flavors of summer with every bite!
