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Creamy Tangy Coleslaw Best Easy Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing Recipe

creamy tangy coleslaw - featured image

A creamy and tangy coleslaw featuring a bright apple cider vinegar dressing that balances sharpness and sweetness, perfect as a refreshing side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage (about 340g / 12 oz)
  • 1 cup peeled and grated carrots (120g / 4.2 oz)
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (40g / 1.4 oz) – optional
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120ml / 4 fl oz)
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (45ml / 1.5 fl oz)
  • 2 tbsp honey or sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed – optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10 minutes): Rinse and dry the cabbage well. Remove any tough outer leaves. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Peel and grate the carrots, then thinly slice the red onion. Toss all veggies together in your large bowl.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — the dressing should be tangy with a hint of sweetness.
  3. Toss the Salad (3 minutes): Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Use tongs or clean hands to mix everything thoroughly so the dressing coats every bit of cabbage and carrot.
  4. Let It Rest (at least 30 minutes): For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least half an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and softens the cabbage just a touch without losing crunch.
  5. Final Touches (Just before serving): Stir in chopped fresh parsley. Give it a quick taste and adjust salt or vinegar if you want more zing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Dry shredded cabbage and carrots thoroughly to avoid watery dressing. Let the coleslaw rest refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and soften the cabbage slightly without losing crunch. Drain excess liquid before serving if needed. For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or full-fat coconut yogurt. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick. Toasted pecans or sunflower seeds can add crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, apple cider vinegar dressing, creamy coleslaw, tangy coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, picnic side dish, barbecue side dish