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Creamy Southern Coleslaw Recipe Easy Tangy Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing

creamy southern coleslaw - featured image

A creamy southern coleslaw with a perfect balance of tangy apple cider vinegar and smooth dressing, featuring crisp cabbage and carrots. Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for BBQs and picnics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Finely shred 1 medium green cabbage (about 6 cups shredded), grate 2 large carrots, and thinly slice ½ small red onion. This should take about 10 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon celery seed, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Using clean hands or salad tongs, toss gently but thoroughly until every shred is coated, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly while keeping crunch.
  5. Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. If it looks thick, stir in a splash of milk or extra vinegar to loosen. Serve cold.

Notes

For best texture, use firm fresh cabbage without brown spots. Drain excess liquid after chilling to avoid sogginess. Can substitute carrots with jicama or celery for crunch. Vegan version possible by swapping mayo and sour cream with vegan mayo and coconut or almond yogurt. Chill overnight for best flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, southern coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, apple cider vinegar dressing, BBQ side dish, picnic recipe, easy coleslaw