This Easy Coleslaw is a classic and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any occasion where you need a flavorful and crunchy salad. With simple ingredients and a creamy dressing, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and customize to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: This coleslaw comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal chopping and mixing.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The creamy dressing with a hint of tanginess complements the crunchy vegetables, making it a delicious addition to any meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences, such as adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices.

Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Coleslaw:
For the Coleslaw:
- Green cabbage: Finely shredded, for a crisp and refreshing base.
- Carrots: Grated, adds sweetness and color.
- Red cabbage: Optional, finely shredded, adds a pop of color and extra crunch.
- Red onion: Finely sliced, adds a bit of bite and sweetness.
For the Dressing:
- Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor and balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
- Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and balances the tanginess.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick and complexity to the dressing.
- Celery salt: Enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Easy Coleslaw
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, red cabbage (if using), and finely sliced red onion.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery salt, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat all the vegetables evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill.
Step 4: Serve
Before serving, toss the coleslaw again to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled as a side dish for your favorite BBQ, sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh cabbage: Fresh cabbage will give you the crunchiest and most flavorful coleslaw.
- Make it lighter: Swap some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier option.
- Add red cabbage: Adding red cabbage not only adds a pop of color but also provides extra crunch.
- Chill for best flavor: Chilling the coleslaw for at least an hour allows the flavors to blend and the vegetables to soften slightly.
How to Serve Easy Coleslaw

- Barbecue Side Dish: This Easy Coleslaw is a classic side dish for barbecues, potlucks, and picnics.
- Sandwich or Burger Topping: Add it to your favorite sandwiches or burgers for extra flavor and crunch.
- Side Salad: Enjoy it as a light and refreshing side salad with any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can use other types of cabbage, such as Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage.
Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or chopped celery.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the coleslaw a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
How can I make this coleslaw spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
There you have it! A simple, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe for Easy Coleslaw that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
Easy Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Coleslaw is a classic and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Crisp cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing come together in this simple and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw:
- 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup finely shredded red cabbage (optional)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, red cabbage (if using), and red onion.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery salt, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Dress Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss the coleslaw again before serving. Serve chilled as a side dish.
Notes
- Fresh Cabbage: Use fresh cabbage for the best crunch.
- Lighter Option: Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Red Cabbage: Adding red cabbage adds color and extra crunch.
- Chilling: Chilling the coleslaw allows the flavors to blend.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 200kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg