When it comes to Southern cuisine, few dishes are as iconic as coleslaw. This Southern Coleslaw Recipe (with Best Homemade Dressing) showcases the perfect balance of crisp, refreshing textures and tangy flavors that will elevate any meal. Whether served alongside barbecued ribs, fried chicken, or a simple sandwich, this coleslaw will add that special touch to your dining experience. Made with vibrant cabbage, crunchy carrots, and a creamy dressing that’s simple to whip up, it’s a recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Southern Coleslaw is everything you want in a side dish. Here’s what makes it a must-try:

Crunchy and Colorful: The combination of green and red cabbage along with carrots creates a visually appealing dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
Homemade Dressing: The creamy dressing made with fresh ingredients elevates the flavor profile beyond store-bought options.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side ready in no time.
Versatile: Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for weeknight dinners.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This coleslaw tastes even better after it sits for a while, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredient Rundown

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

5 cups shredded green cabbage: A classic base for coleslaw that provides crunch.
2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds color and a slightly different flavor profile.
1 cup shredded carrots: Offers sweetness and a pop of color.
½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy element that ties everything together.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and adds acidity.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: For tanginess and balance.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: To enhance the overall flavor and offset the acidity.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
½ teaspoon celery seeds: A classic seasoning in coleslaw for added flavor.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides depth to the dressing.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools handy:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Whisk: For mixing the dressing smoothly.
Sharp knife or food processor: For shredding the cabbage and carrots efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in ingredient amounts.
Refrigerator-safe container: For storing the coleslaw after preparation.

Cook Southern Coleslaw Recipe (with Best Homemade Dressing) Like This

Creating your Southern Coleslaw is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by shredding the green and red cabbage as well as the carrots. If you have a food processor, this will save you a lot of time. Aim for a uniform size so that everything mixes well.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), granulated sugar, salt, ground black pepper, celery seeds, and onion powder. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the dressing is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Dressing

Add the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Give it another toss just before serving for that fresh crunch.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you’re looking for alternatives, here are some easy swaps:

Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo option.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your mayonnaise and vinegar to ensure they are gluten-free.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Southern Coleslaw turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t Overdress: If you add too much dressing at once, the coleslaw can become soggy. Start with half and adjust as needed.
Chill Time: Allowing the coleslaw to sit for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and gives the vegetables time to soften slightly.
Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture. Wilting or overly soft vegetables can ruin your coleslaw.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the dressing before combining it with the vegetables. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, feel free to add more sugar to taste.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Southern Coleslaw fresh:

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: While it’s not ideal to freeze coleslaw due to the texture of the vegetables, you can freeze the dressing for later use. Just whisk it again before adding it to fresh vegetables.
Reheat: Coleslaw is best served cold. Do not heat it, as it will wilt the vegetables.

FAQ

Can I make Southern Coleslaw a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop even further. Just make sure to store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to my coleslaw?

Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of balancing the sweetness.

What if I don’t have celery seeds?

No worries! If you don’t have celery seeds, you can omit them or substitute with a pinch of celery salt for a similar flavor.

Is this coleslaw recipe suitable for meal prep?

This coleslaw is perfect for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container and enjoy it throughout the week as a refreshing side dish.

Weekend Projects

If you love this Southern Coleslaw Recipe (with Best Homemade Dressing), you might want to try these weekend cooking projects:

Hungry for More?

Looking for more delicious recipes to try? Explore a variety of Southern dishes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. From hearty casseroles to decadent desserts, there’s always something exciting to create in your kitchen.

With its vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and creamy dressing, this Southern Coleslaw Recipe (with Best Homemade Dressing) is bound to become a favorite in your household. Quick to prepare and full of fresh flavors, it’s the ideal accompaniment for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy the delightful experience of homemade coleslaw that will have everyone coming back for seconds!