Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing

Featured in: Lunch Nosh

This classic coleslaw combines finely shredded green and red cabbage with julienned carrots, all tossed in a luscious creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this refreshing side dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and summer gatherings. The tangy dressing beautifully complements the crisp vegetables.

Updated on Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:59:21 GMT
A bowl of creamy Coleslaw with shredded green and red cabbage, tossed with bright orange carrots and a tangy dressing. Save
A bowl of creamy Coleslaw with shredded green and red cabbage, tossed with bright orange carrots and a tangy dressing. | grinnosh.com

This classic Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing is the ultimate side dish for any gathering, offering a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances rich, smoky main courses. With its vibrant mix of green and red cabbage and a velvety, tangy dressing, it brings both color and flavor to your table in just 15 minutes.

A bowl of creamy Coleslaw with shredded green and red cabbage, tossed with bright orange carrots and a tangy dressing. Save
A bowl of creamy Coleslaw with shredded green and red cabbage, tossed with bright orange carrots and a tangy dressing. | grinnosh.com

Whether you are serving grilled burgers on a sunny afternoon or looking for a gluten-free side for your holiday spread, this American-style coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about ½ medium head)
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated (about 2 medium carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced (optional)
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Instructions

Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and red onion (if using).
Step 2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3
Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly to combine and ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5
Toss again before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, make sure the vegetables are shredded uniformly. Finely mincing the optional red onion helps distribute its sharp flavor without overpowering the creamy elements of the dressing.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the sugar to 1 tablespoon. For extra tang, add a splash more vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. You can also add sliced green onions or chopped fresh herbs for additional layers of flavor.

Serviervorschläge

This coleslaw is best served cold and is a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats or piled high next to a juicy burger. It can be made up to one day ahead, making it a great option for stress-free meal prep.

Creamy Coleslaw served as a refreshing side dish at a summer barbecue, piled high next to grilled burgers on a picnic table. Save
Creamy Coleslaw served as a refreshing side dish at a summer barbecue, piled high next to grilled burgers on a picnic table. | grinnosh.com

With its simple preparation and classic American profile, this creamy coleslaw is bound to become a staple in your kitchen for all your outdoor hosting needs!

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Recipe FAQ

Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, this coleslaw can be made up to one day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator and toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

How do I make this coleslaw lighter?

Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to reduce calories and fat while maintaining creaminess. You can also use light mayonnaise or reduce the amount of dressing used.

Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw?

Absolutely! Popular additions include sliced green onions, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, bell peppers, or even apple slices for a sweet crunch.

How long does coleslaw last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will stay fresh for 2-3 days. The vegetables may release some water over time, so drain excess liquid before serving.

Is this coleslaw vegan-friendly?

The traditional version contains egg-based mayonnaise and dairy sour cream. However, you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free sour cream or yogurt alternatives.

Why should I refrigerate coleslaw before serving?

Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly while absorbing the dressing, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing

Crisp cabbage and carrots tossed in tangy creamy dressing—perfect for picnics and barbecues.

Prep duration
15 min
0
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Hannah Lewis

Type Lunch Nosh

Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Dietary guidelines Meat-free, No gluten

Components

Vegetables

01 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
02 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
03 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated
04 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced

Creamy Dressing

01 ¾ cup mayonnaise
02 2 tablespoons sour cream
03 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
04 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
05 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
06 ½ teaspoon celery seed
07 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
08 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Stage 01

Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, and minced red onion.

Stage 02

Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined.

Stage 03

Combine and Coat: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Stage 04

Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop.

Stage 05

Finish and Serve: Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Necessary tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains egg from mayonnaise
  • Contains milk from sour cream
  • Check store-bought mayonnaise and sour cream labels for additional allergens

Nutrient content (per portion)

These values are approximate guidelines only and shouldn't replace professional nutritional advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Proteins: 2 g