All-American Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This All-American Coleslaw is a classic, straightforward side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its crisp cabbage base and the tangy goodness of vinegar, it offers a refreshing crunch. By adding a creamy mayonnaise dressing and a few fresh ingredients, it becomes a satisfying, flavorful dish. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or a picnic spread, this coleslaw is the ideal complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side salad. You can customize it to your liking with optional ingredients like peppers, celery, or even a touch of yogurt for a twist on the traditional flavor.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green cabbage | 1 1/2 heads |
| Cider vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Malt vinegar | 2/3 tablespoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Onion (optional) | 1 small, finely diced |
| Carrots | 2 medium, grated |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 139 kcal |
| Fat Content | 8.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 6.8 mg |
| Sodium Content | 317.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 14.6 g |
| Fiber Content | 3.2 g |
| Sugar Content | 6.7 g |
| Protein Content | 2.1 g |
Preparation Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by slicing the green cabbage into thin strips or shredding it using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place it in a large mixing bowl. |
| 2 | Add the cider vinegar, malt vinegar, and salt to the cabbage. Toss everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated with the vinegar mixture. |
| 3 | Grate the carrots and, if you prefer, finely chop the onion. Add the grated carrots and onion directly into the cabbage mixture. Stir well to combine. |
| 4 | Add the mayonnaise to the cabbage and carrot mixture, tossing everything together until the slaw is evenly coated. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your preference for creaminess. |
| 5 | For the best flavor, let the coleslaw stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly. |
| 6 | If you prefer a softer, more tender slaw, refrigerate the mixture for several hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop. |
| 7 | Serve the coleslaw as a side dish to your favorite meals. Enjoy it fresh, or keep it chilled for a crisp and satisfying addition to your next gathering. |
Tips for Customization
- Additional Veggies: Feel free to experiment by adding diced green and red peppers, or even shredded celery for extra texture and flavor.
- Dressing Variation: For a tangier slaw, substitute a portion of the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt. This adds a creamy yet slightly tart twist to the slaw.
- Flavor Additions: Try adding a pinch of caraway seeds for a unique, earthy flavor, or a dash of mustard to give the dressing a little zing.
Conclusion
This All-American Coleslaw is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that can be adapted to suit your personal taste. With just a few basic ingredients, it’s a perfect dish to pair with any meal, offering a balance of crunchy, tangy, and creamy flavors. Whether you let it rest for an hour or overnight, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Add a creative touch with additional vegetables or dressings, and enjoy the simplicity and freshness this coleslaw brings to your table.
