Red and Green Cole Slaw Recipe for Freshness

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that the perfect side dish can elevate an entire meal, transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors and textures. This Red Green Cole Slaw, inspired by classic Southern barbecue traditions and curated from Martha Stewart’s renowned cookbook, embodies that philosophy. Its vibrant hue, tangy sweetness, and crisp texture make it an indispensable accompaniment to pulled pork sandwiches, but its versatility extends far beyond. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a refreshing salad on a summer picnic, this cole slaw promises to delight every palate. Its balanced combination of homemade dressing and crunchy vegetables showcases the magic of simple ingredients working harmoniously, creating a dish that is both nostalgic and modern. Crafted for ease and flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or large potlucks where a crowd-pleasing side is needed. The recipe’s quick preparation and marination time make it an ideal choice for those who want quality without the lengthy process, yet it holds the potential for deeper flavor development if given extra time to meld. As with all recipes on Love With Recipes, this cole slaw emphasizes freshness, simplicity, and taste, ensuring you make a memorable meal every time you serve it.

Time

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Total Time

15 minutes (plus optional marination time for enhanced flavor)

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowl – essential for whisking the dressing and tossing the vegetables
• Whisk – for blending the dressing ingredients thoroughly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in ingredient quantities
• Grater or shredding tool – to shred the green cabbage (and optional red cabbage or carrots)
• Serving spoon or tongs – for mixing and serving
• Refrigerator – for marinating and flavor development
• Cutting board and knife – for preparing optional add-ins or garnishes

Tags

Vegetable, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Potluck, Spicy, No Cook, Easy, Quick, Side Dish, Barbecue, Picnic, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free (if served without gluten-containing ingredients)

Serving Size

Approximately 1/2 cup per serving, yielding about 16 servings

Difficulty Level

Easy — suitable for cooks of all skill levels, including beginners

Allergen Information

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, always double-check ingredient labels if using store-bought or pre-shredded vegetables to ensure no cross-contamination or added allergens.

Dietary Preference

Vegan, Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Soy-Free (unless soy-based additives are used)

Course

Side Dish, Appetizer

Cuisine

American, Southern, Barbecue, Casual

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dressing

Start by selecting a large, clean mixing bowl that will accommodate all ingredients comfortably. Using a whisk, combine the 3/4 cup of ketchup with the 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. The purpose of this step is to create a vibrant, tangy base that will serve as the flavor foundation of your cole slaw. The acidity from the vinegar balances the sweetness of the sugar, and the ketchup adds a savory, slightly sweet note that characterizes this particular slaw style.

Step 2: Incorporating Sweetness and Seasoning

Next, add the 1/2 cup of sugar to the dressing mixture. Whisk again until the sugar dissolves completely, resulting in a glossy, cohesive dressing. Dissolution of sugar is crucial to prevent graininess and ensure even coating of the vegetables later. Follow this by adding the kosher salt and black pepper. These seasonings are essential to enhance the overall flavor, providing depth and a subtle spice that complements the tangy and sweet components. Adjust the black pepper according to your preferred spice level — for a milder flavor, reduce it; for a more pronounced bite, increase slightly.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

While the dressing is coming together, prepare your green cabbage. Use a sharp chef’s knife or a dedicated shredding tool to finely shred 2 1/2 cups of fresh green cabbage. If you’re aiming for a more colorful presentation and additional nutritional value, consider shredding some red cabbage or grating carrots to add vibrant hues and extra crunch. Ensure the cabbage is shredded uniformly to promote even flavor distribution and a satisfying texture. Place the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl or directly into the bowl with the dressing, depending on your preferred workflow.

Step 4: Tossing and Coating

Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded cabbage. Using a large spoon or tongs, toss the mixture gently but thoroughly, ensuring every shred is coated with the flavorful dressing. The goal here is to distribute the tangy, sweet, and savory flavors evenly throughout the vegetables. Be gentle to maintain the crispness of the cabbage, especially if you plan to serve immediately. If you prefer a more developed flavor, transfer the mixture to an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate for several hours. This marination allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful slaw.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

Once the cole slaw has marinated for at least 30 minutes or longer, give it a final toss to redistribute any accumulated juices. Serve cold, directly from the refrigerator. This cole slaw pairs beautifully with pulled pork sandwiches, adding a refreshing crunch and a burst of tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the meat. For presentation, serve in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with additional freshly ground black pepper or chopped herbs if desired.

Optional Step: Enhancing Flavor and Texture

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing before tossing. To increase texture diversity, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. These add a delightful crunch and visual appeal that elevates the dish further.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best texture and flavor. Avoid wilted or soggy vegetables.
• Shred the cabbage as finely as possible for a delicate bite and even dressing coverage.
• Adjust the sweetness or acidity to suit your taste—add more sugar or vinegar if needed.
• Let the slaw marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor, but it can be served immediately if desired.
• For a creamier version, stir in a small amount of vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a more intense tang, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar slightly, tasting as you go.
• Experiment with adding finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra freshness.
• If you prefer a sweeter slaw, increase the sugar by small increments, tasting to balance the acidity.
• To keep the slaw crisp longer, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Use a mandoline for quick, uniform shredding of vegetables, which also helps with presentation.

Add-ons

• Chopped scallions or chives for a mild onion flavor
• Shredded carrots for added color and sweetness
• Crumbled vegan cheese or feta for a savory twist
• Pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick

Side Dishes

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Barbecue chicken or ribs
• Fresh fruit salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Grilled vegetables

Improvements

• Incorporate a touch of honey or agave syrup for a richer sweetness
• Add a splash of olive oil or toasted sesame oil for depth
• Mix in sliced apples or pears for a fruitier profile
• Use red or purple cabbage to make the slaw more colorful and nutrient-rich

Save and Store

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Due to the vinegar dressing, the cabbage will retain its crispness longer than if it were dressed with mayonnaise-based dressings. For best results, toss the slaw again before serving to redistribute the dressing. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cabbage will become soggy upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, ideally, prepare and refrigerate the slaw at least 30 minutes before serving. For maximum flavor, marinate it for several hours or overnight, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, avoid making it more than 24 hours in advance, as the cabbage may lose some of its crispness.

Can I substitute other types of vinegar?

Absolutely. Apple cider vinegar adds a particular tanginess, but rice vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as alternatives. Each will impart a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your taste preference.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, as written, the recipe is vegan-friendly. Just ensure that the ketchup is free from honey or animal-derived ingredients.

Can I add protein to this cole slaw?

While traditionally a side dish, you can incorporate crumbled tofu, chickpeas, or nuts for added protein. However, this might alter the texture and flavor profile slightly.

Conclusion

This Red Green Cole Slaw from Love With Recipes exemplifies how a simple combination of fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing can create an extraordinary side dish. Its quick assembly, adaptability, and vibrant presentation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether serving at a casual barbecue, weekend picnic, or weeknight dinner, this slaw will undoubtedly impress your guests and elevate your meal to new heights. With endless customization options and straightforward preparation, it embodies the essence of easy, delicious, and wholesome cooking. Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in fresh ingredients, balanced seasoning, and allowing ample time for flavors to develop. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps meticulously, and enjoy a refreshing, crunchy, and tangy addition to your culinary repertoire, all while exploring more delightful recipes on Love With Recipes!