Coleslaw Dressing Recipe

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that perfectly complements a variety of main courses, from BBQ to fried chicken to sandwiches. The key to an unforgettable coleslaw lies in its dressing. Today, we’ll be sharing a tried-and-true coleslaw dressing recipe that’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet.

Ingredients

To create the perfect coleslaw dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the dressing.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Provides natural sweetness to balance the tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of sharpness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon celery seed: Gives a subtle flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and celery seed. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth.
2. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, then adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
3. Combine with Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over your shredded cabbage and carrot mixture (or your favorite coleslaw mix). Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill: For the best flavor, let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly.

Tips for the Best Coleslaw

• Shred Fresh Vegetables: For the freshest and crunchiest coleslaw, shred your cabbage and carrots at home. Pre-packaged coleslaw mix is convenient, but freshly shredded veggies make a big difference.
• Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: The balance of sweetness and tanginess can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a bit more honey. If you like it tangier, add a bit more vinegar.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality mayonnaise and mustard can elevate your coleslaw dressing to new heights.

Variations

• Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Dressing: For a lighter version, replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This adds a tangy flavor and reduces the overall fat content.
• Spicy Coleslaw Dressing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give your coleslaw a spicy kick.
• Vegan Coleslaw Dressing: Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey to make the dressing vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to rich and savory pulled pork sandwiches.
• Fish Tacos: The tangy dressing complements the flavors of grilled or fried fish tacos.
• Burgers and Hot Dogs: Serve coleslaw as a side or even as a topping for a delightful texture contrast.

Enjoy your homemade coleslaw with this delicious and easy-to-make dressing. It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table or next cookout!