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Crunchy Coleslaw Recipe Easy Homemade Crisp Texture Perfect for BBQ

crunchy coleslaw recipe - featured image

A fresh, crisp, and creamy coleslaw recipe that delivers a satisfying crunch and pairs perfectly with BBQ or any meal. This easy homemade coleslaw avoids the sogginess common in store-bought versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cabbage heads under cold water, then pat dry. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, finely shred 4 cups of green cabbage and 1 cup of red cabbage. Shred 1 cup of carrots as well.
  2. Place shredded cabbage and carrots in a colander or salad spinner. Rinse briefly, then spin or pat dry with a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, and ½ teaspoon celery seed (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust thickness with a splash of water if needed.
  4. In a large bowl, toss the dried cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and 2 thinly sliced green onions. Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld without the cabbage getting soggy. Toss gently again before serving.

Notes

Thoroughly dry shredded cabbage and carrots to prevent watery coleslaw. Toss gently just before serving to maintain crunch. For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Add toasted sunflower seeds or chopped apples for extra texture. Keep chilled until serving and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before plating.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, crunchy coleslaw, BBQ side dish, homemade coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, fresh coleslaw