Best Creamy Coleslaw
Looking for the best creamy coleslaw recipe? This is my easy go-to slaw with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a rich, tangy dressing. It makes a great side dish on its own, and perfect for BBQ's and summer cookouts.
I feel like coleslaw doesn't always get the credit it deserves. A good coleslaw can completely elevate a meal with its crunchy texture and tangy flavor. Forget the soggy store-bought versions when it's so simple to make right at home.
This homemade creamy coleslaw recipe is made with crisp green cabbage, shredded carrots, fresh cilantro, and a creamy dressing that comes together in minutes. It's so good, I have a hard time resisting eating it straight from the bowl.
Try my Mediterranean Coleslaw Chicken Salad for a fun twist, or something heartier like this popular Coleslaw Pasta Salad Recipe - my favorite pasta salad to date!
You'll love this slaw as a simple side with my Oven Baked BBQ Chicken, but it's also great in tacos, sandwiches, burgers, and so much more. I actually piled a big scoop on top of my spaghetti the other night for a fresh crunch, and it was amazing!
Ingredients You Need
- Salad ingredients- Green cabbage for a fresh taste and crunch, carrots to offer sweetness and texture, and cilantro for an earthy, citrusy flavor.
- Dressing ingredients- Mayo and sour cream together offer nice balance. Apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard give the salad some zip. Maple syrup provides a touch of sweetness, and pantry seasonings like celery salt, and black pepper.
Easy to Make (Under 10-Minutes)
Find the full recipe in my printable card below.
- Combine the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Add prepared cabbage, carrots, and cilantro to a serving bowl then pour in all the dressing. Toss well to combine.
Can I Use Store-Bought Coleslaw Mix?
Yes! Although fresh cabbage results in a fresher texture, you can absolutely use coleslaw mix for a short-cut--I've done this many times. I would suggest rinsing the slaw mix with cold water in a colander and allow it to drain well. This will revive the slaw and help crisp it up.
Ang's Tips and Variations
- Let the coleslaw chill for a bit to give the cabbage a chance to marinate with the dressing.
- For less creamy slaw, add dressing to your desired taste and creaminess.
- Make it spicy by adding diced, pickled jalapeños. I use the medium heat so it's not too spicy.
- Green onions offer a nice touch and have a subtle onion flavor that won't overpower the slaw.
What If I Don't Like Mayo?
Adding sour cream in this recipe tones down the mayo flavor, so it doesn't have a prominent mayo taste. If you don't want to use mayo at all, use all sour cream or even plain Greek yogurt mixed with sour cream, however, the results will be slightly different.
How Long Will Creamy Coleslaw Last?
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss before serving. Keep in mind that the cabbage releases moisture as it sits, so the coleslaw may become a little more liquidy over time.
More Coleslaw Serving Ideas
These recipes pair perfectly with coleslaw, whether you serve it on the side or pile it right on top.
- Slow Cooker Spanish Pulled Pork
- Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Baja Crispy Fish Tacos
- Vegetarian Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Easy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Grilled Maple Chipotle Pork Chops
- Marinated Grilled Chicken
Best Creamy Coleslaw
Equipment
- small bowl
- medium serving bowl
Ingredients
Salad
- 6-8 cups green cabbage, shredded about ½ medium cabbage
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped
Dressing
- ½ cup mayo
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoon pure maple syrup not pancake syrup
- ½ teaspoon celery salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add prepared salad ingredients to a medium bowl and set aside.
- In a small bowl whisk the dressing ingredients until creamy. Taste for seasonings.
- Pour dressing over the slaw mix then toss well with tongs.
- Cover bowl and place in the refrigerator for at least 30-minutes. Toss again just before serving and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
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