There’s nothing quite like biting into a crisp, refreshing coleslaw on a warm summer day, especially one that brings back memories of family gatherings and backyard barbecues. The Paula Deen Coleslaw Recipe takes only about 20 minutes to prepare and involves a delightful mix of textures with crunchy cabbage and smooth dressing that works beautifully alongside any dish.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their meal with a classic side. Whether you’re hosting a cookout, preparing for a potluck, or simply want a refreshing dish with dinner, this coleslaw is a great option. You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stores well in the fridge for up to three days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It combines green and red cabbage for a beautiful color contrast.
- The creamy dressing is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of tang.
- Celery seeds add a subtle crunch and a hint of flavor that’s unexpected.
- Perfectly chilled, it serves as a refreshing counterpoint to spicy dishes.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for your coleslaw masterpiece:
For the Salad
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
For the Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds
- 2 tablespoons milk
Use low-fat mayonnaise as a substitute for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Green cabbage can be replaced with Napa cabbage.
- Apple cider vinegar can be swapped with white vinegar.
- Sugar may be adjusted or replaced with honey.
- Milk can be omitted for a thicker dressing.
How to Make It
Start by assembling the salad and dressing components before combining them.
Prepare the Vegetables
Shred the green cabbage and red cabbage and grate the carrot. Ensure they are finely shredded for the best texture in your coleslaw.
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, celery seeds, and milk until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed for your taste.
Combine Vegetables and Dressing
Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrot to the dressing. Toss everything together until all the vegetables are well coated in the dressing.
Taste and Adjust
Taste the coleslaw and adjust the flavors as needed by adding more sugar or vinegar. Make sure the flavors are just right for your preference.
Chill the Coleslaw
Cover the coleslaw and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Stir Before Serving
Before serving, take the coleslaw out of the fridge and give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the coleslaw to a serving bowl and garnish it with additional celery seeds or herbs if desired. Enjoy with your favorite dishes!
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture may become mushy.
Reheat: not necessary, serve cold.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra crunch, add chopped apples or nuts to the mix.
- Let it chill for longer for enhanced flavors.
- Always taste before serving to ensure perfect seasoning.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or burgers.
- Serve alongside barbecue dishes for a classic combo.
- Perfect for topping tacos or sandwiches for extra crunch.
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