Southern Coleslaw

Name: Southern Coleslaw
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486642H56M58S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon celery seed; 16-ounce bag of coleslaw mix; 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: June 2, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This Southern coleslaw can be made in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or use it as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.
Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings creates a creamy texture with the right amount of tang.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue, picnic, or potluck, this slaw fits seamlessly into any menu.
Travel-Friendly: Southern coleslaw holds up well during transport, making it ideal for gatherings away from home.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Southern coleslaw, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Paper towels
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spills.
Whisk: A whisk helps to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even flavor throughout the coleslaw.

Ingredients

To prepare this tasty Southern coleslaw, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dressing

2/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon celery seed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

For the Slaw

16-ounce bag of coleslaw mix
1/2 small red onion (thin sliced)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Southern Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, granulated sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Add Coleslaw Mix and Onions

Pat your coleslaw mix dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. To the dressing bowl, add the shredded coleslaw mix and thinly sliced red onions. Toss until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your Southern coleslaw for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and lets the cabbage soften slightly. Before serving, give it one last toss if needed.

Enjoy your delicious Southern coleslaw as a refreshing side!

How to Serve Southern Coleslaw

Southern coleslaw is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Here are some tasty ways to serve this creamy delight at your next gathering.

With Barbecue

Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Southern coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that complements the rich taste of pulled pork.
Ribs: A side of coleslaw balances the smoky flavors of barbecued ribs, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.

As a Topping

Tacos: Use Southern coleslaw as a fresh topping for fish or chicken tacos, adding crunch and creaminess to each bite.
Burgers: Place a generous scoop of coleslaw on top of burgers for extra flavor and a satisfying crunch.

On Its Own

Chilled Side Dish: Serve Southern coleslaw in small bowls as a refreshing side at any meal, especially during hot summer days.
Picnic Favorite: Pack it in your picnic basket for an easy, crowd-pleasing side that travels well.

How to Perfect Southern Coleslaw

Perfecting Southern coleslaw is simple with the right techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

Bold flavors: Add more vinegar or mustard if you prefer a tangier taste that cuts through the creaminess of the mayonnaise.
Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables like cabbage and onion for the best flavor and texture in your coleslaw.
Chill time: Allow your coleslaw to sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving; this lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Texture variety: For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped carrots or bell peppers into your coleslaw mix.
Sweet balance: Adjust sugar levels according to taste; some may prefer their coleslaw sweeter while others might like it more savory.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Coleslaw

Southern coleslaw pairs well with various side dishes, making every meal more exciting. Here are some great options to consider:

Cornbread: This classic southern bread is slightly sweet and complements the tangy flavors of coleslaw perfectly.
Baked Beans: The hearty beans add protein and complement the freshness of your coleslaw, creating a balanced meal.
Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies add smokiness that contrasts nicely with creamy coleslaw.
Fried Chicken: The crispy skin and juicy meat of fried chicken go hand-in-hand with cold, refreshing slaw.
Potato Salad: Another classic summer dish; its creamy texture pairs well with the crunch of coleslaw.
Deviled Eggs: These rich bites provide a savory option that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Southern coleslaw, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoiding these will ensure your coleslaw is delicious and refreshing.

Using wet coleslaw mix: Always pat the coleslaw mix dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can make your coleslaw watery and dilute the flavor of the dressing.
Skipping the chilling time: Don’t rush the refrigeration step. Allow your Southern coleslaw to chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together and improve the overall taste.
Overmixing ingredients: Be gentle when tossing the ingredients together. Overmixing can break down the cabbage, making it limp instead of crunchy.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dressing before adding it to the coleslaw mix. You may want to adjust seasoning, such as salt or sugar, to suit your preference.
Storing improperly: Avoid using metal containers for storage. Instead, opt for airtight glass or plastic containers to keep your Southern coleslaw fresh longer.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make sure to consume within this time for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Southern Coleslaw

Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving; however, expect a change in texture.

Reheating Southern Coleslaw

Oven: Not recommended for coleslaw, as it’s best served cold.
Microwave: If you prefer warm coleslaw, microwave in short intervals (10-15 seconds) but be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Heat gently on medium-low heat with a splash of water until slightly warmed. Stir frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Southern coleslaw different from other coleslaws?

Southern coleslaw typically includes a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, giving it a rich and tangy flavor that sets it apart from vinegar-based slaws.

Can I customize my Southern coleslaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or even fruits like pineapple for a unique twist on traditional Southern coleslaw.

How long does Southern coleslaw last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Southern coleslaw can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator while maintaining its freshness and crunchiness.

What can I serve with Southern coleslaw?

Southern coleslaw pairs perfectly with barbecue dishes, fried chicken, or even as a topping on sandwiches and burgers. It adds a refreshing crunch that complements many meals!

Is there a healthier version of Southern coleslaw?

Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise or use lighter dressings while still achieving a creamy texture without excess calories.

Final Thoughts

Southern coleslaw is a delightful side dish that brings vibrant flavors and textures to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as part of a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!

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