Mari's Coleslaw

Mari's Coleslaw: A Simple Recipe for a Crowd-Pleaser

As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. This coleslaw recipe fits the bill perfectly! It's become a staple in my household, a side dish that always seems to disappear first at any gathering. The creamy, tangy dressing is perfectly balanced, and the crisp cabbage provides a refreshing contrast. I’ve made countless batches, tweaking it slightly each time to perfection, and now I’m excited to share my foolproof method with you.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It's equally at home at a casual backyard barbecue as it is at a more formal dinner party. The vibrant color adds a pop to any table, and the simple preparation means I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying my family and friends. I often double or even triple the recipe, depending on the occasion, knowing it will always be a hit. The recipe is so simple even the kids can help with the preparation, making it a fun family activity.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this coleslaw also offers a nice balance of flavors. The sweetness of the sugar cuts through the tang of the vinegar, while the salt enhances all the other elements. The oil adds a wonderful richness and creaminess that you won't find in many other coleslaw recipes. I’ve experimented with different types of oil, from vegetable to canola, and find that they all work well, though the taste can vary subtly. It truly is a recipe that allows for personal touches and adaptations.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Coleslaw:

• Shredding the Cabbage: For the best results, use a mandoline slicer or a food processor to shred the cabbage finely and evenly. This ensures that the dressing coats every piece and that it all gets thoroughly mixed. Roughly chopped cabbage just won't offer the same satisfying texture.
• The Dressing: Don't be afraid to adjust the amounts of oil, vinegar, sugar, and salt to your own taste preferences. Some people prefer a more tart coleslaw, while others like it sweeter. Experiment to find your perfect balance!
• Letting it Sit: For optimal flavor, it's best to allow the coleslaw to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more flavorful and enjoyable experience.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to improve over time, though I often find that it's gone before then!
• Add-ins: Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touches to this recipe. Some popular additions include shredded carrots, chopped red onion, or even some toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch. A little bit of freshly grated apple can add a nice sweetness and contrast in texture.

This Mari's Coleslaw isn't just a side dish; it's a family favorite, a crowd-pleaser, and a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined perfectly. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Step-by-step

• For one head of finely shredded cabbage I used 1/2 c. oil, 1/2 c vinegar, 2 tbls sugar and 1 tbls salt.
• Shake it in a jar and mix about 1/2 the shredded cabbage and add until you like the flavor.