This classic creamy coleslaw is my favorite slaw to pile on pulled pork sandwiches or serve alongside fish, ham, or pork dishes. It’s not overly sweet, has a perfectly balanced acidity, and celery seeds add an extra layer of flavor. If you like a sweeter slaw, feel free to experiment with more sugar or honey, or leave the sweetener out altogether. Using this recipe, you’ll have a delicious coleslaw within 15 or 20 minutes.
This creamy coleslaw is perfect for family meals, cookouts, tailgating events, fish fries, or potluck dinners!
Tips
- You can slice the cabbage by hand or in the food processor with a slicing disk, but a mandoline makes it fast and super easy, and you can get it nice and thin. I use this mandoline (Amazon link) because it’s versatile, adjustable, and easy to clean.
- Don’t worry if it doesn’t seem creamy enough right away. The cabbage and, to a lesser degree, the carrot begin to release their water when they come into contact with the dressing. Giving the slaw an hour or so in the fridge will help produce more moisture and the cold temperature will help the dressing thicken a bit, making a creamier texture.
- Taste the slaw just before serving and adjust the seasonings as necessary. This is when you should check for salt, pepper, and vinegar.
- For the best texture and flavor, use very fresh cabbage and carrots.
- This OXO julienne Y-peeler (Amazon link) is great for preparing the carrots.
Recipe Variations
Spices and Seasonings
- Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for complementary flavor and tanginess.
- Fresh herbs like dill or chives can add more color and brighten the flavor.
- A dash of onion powder can give the salad an extra layer of taste.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Add-Ins
- Pineapple can add tropical flavor to coleslaw.
- Diced apples and raisins can add sweetness. Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Sliced red onions can add extra flavor and a touch of color.
- Add a few tablespoons of finely chopped jalapeno pepper for pleasant heat and color.
What to Serve With Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a terrific accompaniment to many main dishes. Here are some of our favorites:
- Fish: Add it to your menu with this baked Chilean sea bass or a fabulous dish or fried sole or oven-fried tilapia.
- Shellfish: Serve this slaw with fried oysters, lobster rolls, or alongside this simple shrimp wiggle.
- Pork: Pulled pork isn’t a meal without the slaw. It’s also great with pork chops and grilled pork tenderloin.
- Beef: Whether as a topping or on the side, coleslaw provides fabulous flavor to hamburgers, turkey burgers, and sloppy joes.
- Chicken: Coleslaw and fried chicken is a classic combination. Add it to roast chicken dinner or baked chicken breasts for a lovely balance of flavors and freshness.
- Sandwiches: Add it to a grilled cheese sandwich for a delightful surprise, or update your Reuben with slaw instead of sauerkraut.
Classic Creamy Coleslaw
Looking for the perfect side dish? Try this classic creamy coleslaw recipe. Serve it with pulled pork, fish, ham, or pork for a delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salads, Cabbage
- Method: Chill
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage (finely shredded)
- 1 large carrot (shredded or julienned)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage: Shred the cabbage and carrots and transfer them to a large bowl. 
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar or honey, vinegar, and celery seeds. Whisk to blend. 
Dress the Salad: Toss the cabbage mixture with the dressing until moistened. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. 
Serve: Taste the slaw and add salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl. Enjoy! 
