Classic Creamy Coleslaw

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Every summer cookout at our house needs a big bowl of coleslaw. It is the cool, crunchy thing that balances out all the smoky, rich food coming off the grill. I like mine creamy but not drowning in dressing, with a little tang from vinegar and mustard to keep it bright. The best part is that I can make it hours ahead, which is exactly what I want when I am juggling a dozen other things. It even gets better as it sits, the cabbage softening just enough while it chills. A batch of this next to some pulled pork feels like summer to me.

Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw

• Cool and crunchy with a creamy, tangy dressing.
• The right partner for barbecue and grilled food.
• Make it hours ahead, and it gets better as it sits.
• A simple pantry dressing, no packet needed.

Ingredients for Coleslaw

• 1 small head green cabbage, shredded (about 8 cups), or 1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix
• 2 carrots, grated
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper

How to Make Coleslaw

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, Dijon, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
3. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving.
5. Give it a quick toss and taste for salt before bringing it to the table.

Tips

• Celery seed is the little secret that gives the dressing its savory depth.
• Chill it for an hour or two so the flavors blend and the cabbage softens slightly.
• To keep it from getting watery, toss the cabbage with a little salt, let it sit 15 minutes, then squeeze it dry before dressing.
• A bag of pre-shredded slaw mix makes this even faster.

FAQ

Can I make it the day before? Yes, though it is crispest within the first day. Give it a good stir before serving.

How do I make it less sweet? Cut the sugar back or leave it out, and taste as you adjust the vinegar.