Best Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This classic coleslaw recipe is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. It’s an easy side dish that complements any meal, ready in just 10 minutes and serving eight people.

Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2.5 tablespoons white vinegar
- 3 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pepper to taste
- 14-16 ounces coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, celery salt, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and pepper. Mix until smooth and taste to adjust seasonings if needed.
- Step 2: Place the coleslaw mix into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw and toss well to coat. You may have some dressing left unused depending on how creamy you prefer your salad.
- Step 3: For best flavor, refrigerate the coleslaw for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. It can also be served immediately if time is short.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh cabbage and carrot mix or shred your own vegetables for extra crunch and freshness.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to taste for more sweetness or tang.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. It’s best enjoyed fresh as it may release some liquid upon standing.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make coleslaw a day ahead?
Yes, making coleslaw a few hours or a day in advance helps deepen the flavors. Just give it a good toss before serving and drain any excess liquid if needed.
What can I use if I don’t have coleslaw mix?
You can shred your own cabbage and carrots. A mix of green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots works beautifully to replicate coleslaw mix.
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Best Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic coleslaw recipe delivers a creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced side dish that’s quick to prepare and ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a crunchy salad accompaniment to any meal. With a homemade dressing featuring mayo, sour cream, vinegar, and subtle seasonings, it brightens up the crunchy cabbage and carrot mix for a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2.5 tablespoons white vinegar
- 3 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pepper, to taste
Slaw Mix
- 14–16 ounces coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, granulated sugar, celery salt, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and pepper to a medium bowl. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance.
- Toss the coleslaw: Place the coleslaw mix into a large bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated. Note that depending on your preference for creaminess, you may have a little dressing left unused.
- Chill and serve: For best flavor development, cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. However, if pressed for time, the coleslaw can be served immediately after tossing.
Notes
- Using a coleslaw mix with pre-shredded cabbage and carrots makes preparation faster and easier.
- Adjust the sugar and vinegar quantities to suit your taste if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy slaw.
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery or green onions.
- For a lighter option, substitute part or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, coleslaw recipe, side dish, picnic salad, cabbage salad, easy coleslaw

