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Creamy Coleslaw Recipe with Tangy Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing Easy and Fresh

creamy coleslaw recipe - featured image

A fresh and tangy creamy coleslaw with a bright apple cider vinegar dressing that balances crisp veggies and smooth creaminess, perfect for BBQs and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and julienned or shredded
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Veggies (10 minutes): Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred the green cabbage finely until you have about 6 cups. Peel and shred or julienne the carrots to about 1 cup. Thinly slice the red onion if using. Toss all the veggies together in a large mixing bowl along with the chopped fresh parsley.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup), 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy but pourable—if it looks too thick, add a teaspoon of water or more vinegar for extra tang.
  3. Combine Slaw and Dressing (2 minutes): Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the cabbage; you want it crisp and fresh.
  4. Rest and Chill (at least 15 minutes): Let the coleslaw sit covered in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the cabbage soften just slightly, making each bite perfectly balanced between crunchy and tender.
  5. Final Taste & Adjustments: Before serving, taste the coleslaw. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash more apple cider vinegar if you want to brighten it up further. If the slaw feels too tangy, a drizzle of honey can mellow the sharpness.

Notes

For best texture, shred cabbage very thinly. Resting the slaw in the fridge for at least 15 minutes improves flavor and texture. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise. Dressing can be made ahead and tossed just before serving to keep slaw crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy coleslaw, apple cider vinegar dressing, tangy coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, summer side dish, BBQ side, fresh coleslaw