Old Fashioned American Coleslaw Recipe (Creamy)

There’s nothing quite like the crunch of fresh cabbage and the tang of creamy dressing on a warm summer day. This Old Fashioned American Coleslaw Recipe (Creamy) takes just 15 minutes to prepare and is a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch that complements any meal. The secret lies in the perfect blend of simple ingredients that harmonize to create that classic taste.

This recipe is ideal for those who love refreshing side dishes, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. You can make it ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Offers a delightful crunch from the fresh cabbage and carrots.
• Prepares in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
• The creamy dressing perfectly balances sweetness and tang.
• Subtly enhances the flavor of a variety of main dishes.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to whip up your coleslaw:

For the Salad

• 1 head green cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, peeled or unpeeled, shredded

For the Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Mayonnaise can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use red cabbage for a colorful twist.
• Substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Swap apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for added tang.
• For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce.

How to Make It

Making coleslaw from scratch is quick and simple.

Shred the vegetables

Shred the cabbage and carrots using a grating or shredding disc in a food processor. Transfer to a large bowl.

Combine the dressing

In a small bowl or pitcher, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.

Toss the salad

Add the creamy dressing to the shredded cabbage and carrots and toss to combine. Start with about half of the dressing, adding more as needed for your desired creaminess.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture degrades after freezing.
Reheat: Not applicable, serve cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Shred the cabbage and carrots just before serving for maximum crunch.
• Adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar amount based on personal preference.
• For extra flavor, let the coleslaw sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled meats for a classic cookout dish.
• Serve alongside fried chicken for a comforting meal.
• Use as a topping for sandwiches or tacos.