This Creamy Coleslaw recipe is a delightful blend of rich, tangy, and sweet flavors. It enhances barbecues and shines as a topping for tacos or hearty sandwiches. This versatile dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this creamy coleslaw in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings creates a deliciously rich dressing that complements any meal.
- Versatile Usage: This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, and it also makes an excellent topping for sandwiches or wraps.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it a day in advance for even better flavor; the ingredients meld beautifully overnight.
- Crowd-Pleasing Side: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves six people and is sure to be a hit among guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your creamy coleslaw, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Serving spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing the coleslaw without spills.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth dressing by thoroughly combining all the ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your creamy coleslaw.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw
- 1 package (14 ounces) coleslaw mix
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Coleslaw
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, seasoned salt, ground mustard, and celery salt until smooth.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Place the coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly. If you plan on adding onion, do so sparingly; its flavor can intensify over time.
Step 3: Refrigerate Before Serving
Store the mixture in the fridge, covered until serving. For best results, allow it to sit for at least an hour before serving. The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together. However, avoid storing it for more than several days to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a fresh topping for tacos, this creamy coleslaw will elevate your dining experience.
As a Side Dish
- Barbecue Ribs: The tangy sweetness of creamy coleslaw balances the richness of barbecue ribs.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors.
- Fish Tacos: Use creamy coleslaw as a crunchy topping to enhance the flavors of fish tacos.
In Sandwiches
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A generous scoop of creamy coleslaw adds creaminess and texture to pulled pork.
- Fried Chicken Sandwiches: The cool crunch of coleslaw perfectly complements crispy fried chicken.
- Veggie Wraps: Add creamy coleslaw to veggie wraps for extra flavor and crunch.
How to Perfect Creamy Coleslaw
Creating the perfect creamy coleslaw is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality mayonnaise make a big difference in taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust sugar levels according to your preference for sweetness.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the coleslaw to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Add Crunch: Incorporate diced apples or nuts for an unexpected crunch that adds texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is not only delicious but also pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some perfect options to consider when planning your meal.
- Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread complements the tanginess of the coleslaw perfectly.
- Baked Beans: Rich and savory baked beans provide a hearty contrast to light, creamy slaw.
- Potato Salad: A classic combo, potato salad offers another creamy element that balances well.
- Macaroni Salad: Similar in texture, macaroni salad brings an additional layer of comfort food joy.
- Cola-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots add a pop of color and sweetness alongside your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring smoky flavors that enhance the freshness of the coleslaw.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy coleslaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overdressing the coleslaw: Adding too much dressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check the expiration dates on your mayonnaise and sour cream to ensure the best taste.
- Ignoring the resting time: Skipping the resting period can lead to less developed flavors. Allow your creamy coleslaw to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting is key! Always taste your coleslaw after mixing and adjust seasonings like salt or sugar according to your preference.
- Forgetting about texture: A good coleslaw has a crunch. If you chop your vegetables too finely, they’ll lose their texture. Aim for bite-sized pieces for that perfect crunch.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container: Keep your creamy coleslaw in a well-sealed container to maintain freshness.
- Shelf life: It lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge. The flavors deepen over time but be wary of texture changes.
Freezing Creamy Coleslaw
- Not recommended for freezing: Creamy coleslaw does not freeze well due to its mayonnaise-based dressing, which can separate upon thawing.
- Fresh is best: To enjoy optimal flavor and texture, prepare it fresh when possible.
Reheating Creamy Coleslaw
- Oven: Not suitable for reheating; serve cold for best results.
- Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture. Serve chilled instead.
- Stovetop: This dish is best enjoyed cold, so avoid reheating altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this creamy coleslaw different from others?
This creamy coleslaw stands out due to its balanced combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and sugar, creating a rich yet tangy flavor profile that complements various dishes.
Can I customize my creamy coleslaw?
Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like shredded carrots, chopped apples, or even nuts for added texture and flavor.
How long does creamy coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, creamy coleslaw can last 3-5 days while maintaining its delicious taste.
Is this creamy coleslaw healthy?
While it offers a delightful mix of flavors, it’s still important to enjoy it in moderation due to its calorie content from mayonnaise and sugar.
Final Thoughts
This creamy coleslaw recipe is not only versatile but also incredibly easy to make. It pairs well with barbecue dishes, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or fruits for a personal touch. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delicious flavors!
Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is a delightful side dish that brings together rich, tangy, and sweet flavors in a crunchy medley. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a versatile topping for sandwiches and tacos, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleasing addition to any meal.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves six
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 ounces) coleslaw mix
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, seasoned salt, ground mustard, and celery salt until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: For added crunch and flavor, consider mixing in diced apples or chopped nuts. Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar based on your taste preference. Prepare the coleslaw a day ahead for even better flavor development.
