Coleslaw

My Go-To Coleslaw: A Simple Recipe for Busy Weeknights

As a busy working mom, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. This coleslaw fits the bill perfectly. I've always loved coleslaw, that sweet and tangy crunch alongside barbecue or just as a refreshing side. But let’s be honest, sometimes store-bought just doesn't cut it. The texture can be off, the flavor a little bland. That's why I perfected my own simple coleslaw recipe—one that even my picky eaters love. It's become a staple in our home, appearing on our table at least once a week.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. I've used it countless times as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, a side for grilled chicken, or simply enjoyed it on its own as a light and flavorful lunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal chopping and uses readily available ingredients—no exotic spices or hard-to-find produce needed. The key is to balance the sweet and tangy flavors, achieving that perfect harmony that makes coleslaw so addictive.

The ingredients are simple and straightforward. I usually grab a large head of cabbage, a couple of onions (I like using yellow onions, but white or red will work equally well), mayonnaise (I swear by Hellmann's!), granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar for a little zing, and freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick. The combination of these ingredients creates a slaw that’s both creamy and crunchy, with a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors. The secret? Allowing it to sit for at least an hour (or even better, overnight!) lets the flavors really meld together. This allows the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb all the delicious dressing, resulting in a more flavorful and satisfying experience. Seriously, the difference between a freshly-made coleslaw and one that's had time to sit is night and day.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this coleslaw is also adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of cabbage. I've sometimes used a pre-shredded mix from the store for convenience, but nothing beats the freshness and texture of freshly shredded cabbage. You can also adjust the amounts of sugar and vinegar to your liking—if you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a bit more sugar, and if you prefer a more tangy slaw, add a little more vinegar. The possibilities are endless!

Don't be intimidated if you've never made coleslaw before. This recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to summer barbecues. It’s also great for meal prepping—make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. So, next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious side dish, give this coleslaw recipe a try. You won't regret it!

Serving Suggestions:

• Pulled pork sandwiches
• Grilled chicken
• Barbecue ribs
• Hamburgers
• Hot dogs
• A light lunch

Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Grate or shred the cabbage as thinly as possible.
• In a bowl combine it with the diced onion and all the other ingredients.
• This slaw should be sweet, sour, peppery and creamy.
• Allow to sit for at least 1 hour before serving.
• Even better the next day.
• If kept more than two days the slaw will become watery.