Easy Coleslaw Recipe

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Looking for a tasty and simple Coleslaw Recipe? You’re in the right place! This coleslaw is perfect for a quick side dish or a crunchy topping for your favorite meals. With fresh green cabbage, sweet carrots, and a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and a touch of honey, this recipe is all about delicious simplicity. Let's dive in and make this easy coleslaw together!

This recipe is: Low Carb, Gluten Free and Vegetarian 

A bowl of coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing, garnished with parsley, with a serving spoon placed inside the bowl.

Table of Contents

5 Reasons to Love This Recipe

Here are five reasons why you'll love this creamy coleslaw recipe:

  1. One of the best coleslaw recipes you will try.
  2. Perfect for a backyard gathering or a neighborhood BBQ.
  3. Super-quick to make with simple ingredients.
  4. Everyone loves this recipe: you’ll be the star of the show!
  5. Bright, vibrant colors and flavors.

Is Coleslaw Low-Carb?

Yes, coleslaw can be made low-carb. In this slaw dressing recipe, there are only 6 g net carbs per serving. Besides that, I have provided more instructions to lower the carbs in the recipe in the later sections.

Coleslaw Recipe Ingredient List

The following are the ingredients you'll need to make coleslaw recipe:

  • 4 medium carrots, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon Erythritol sweetener
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ green cabbage, cored and shredded
  • ½ small red onion, sliced thinly (add more or less to taste)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ cup whole grain or stoneground mustard
  • Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
A spoonful of coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing being lifted above a bowl, garnished with parsley.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't like or don't have some of the ingredients for this sweet creamy coleslaw recipe, here are some easy substitutions you can use:

  • Green cabbage: Use red cabbage or Napa cabbage. You can also buy a pre-sliced coleslaw mix.
  • Red onion: Use 1 full shallot.
  • Mayonnaise: Use my recipe for Paleo Mayo or use store-bought avocado mayonnaise. If you're wondering Is Mayo Low Carb check out the in depth article to dig into its carb content and nutrition value. 
  • Sour cream: Use full-fat Greek yogurt.
  • Whole grain mustard: Use Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons of mustard seeds.
  • Erythritol: Use an alternative sweetener like monk fruit sweetener or stevia (or even honey if you don't mind the extra sugar.)

Additional Ingredients

If you want to add some extra flair to your coleslaw, here are some basic ingredients that pair perfectly with the main ingredients:

  • Fresh herbs: This creamy coleslaw loves fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Spices: I always add one teaspoon celery seeds to my coleslaw to brighten up the flavor. A half teaspoon goes a long way.
  • Citrus: Just a quick squeeze of lemon or lime brightens up the flavor considerably.
  • Heat: I love to add a drizzle of hot chili oil to the top of this coleslaw right before serving. Everyone looks around wondering just who would dare put heat in coleslaw. But here’s the thing: people love it! Or, add in some Pickled Jalapeno Slices.
  • Pickled red onions: Yes, pickled onions are delicious in this recipe. Check out how to make them easily with my Pickled Onion Recipe.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Add one or two tablespoons apple cider vinegar to enhance the flavors of slaw.

Note: These ingredients are optional and are not a part of the recipe.

Low-Carb Tips

If you're looking to reduce the carbs in this creamy coleslaw dressing recipe even further, here are some tips:

  • Reduce the carrots: Use 2 carrots instead of 4. Replace the rest with julienned radishes or jicama for a great taste.
  • Increase the cabbage content: Cabbage is low in carbs. Use more cabbage and fewer of the other vegetables for a lower-carb option — it will still taste great. Add some sliced green onions and season with salt.

Tools Required

The following are the tools you'll need for the sour cream coleslaw:

Close-up of coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing, garnished with parsley.

How to Make Coleslaw Recipe: Complete Cooking Guide

Cooking Method

  • No-cook recipe

Preparation Steps

  1. Gather all the tools and ingredients for this recipe.
  2. Core and shred green cabbage.
  3. Thinly slice small red onion.

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, add the shredded carrots, cabbage and onions. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, sweetener, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
  3. Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture. Mix well.
  4. Serve cold and happy eating!
Ingredients for coleslaw on a wooden surface, including half a cabbage, red onion, carrots, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasoning.

Step 1: Gather up the ingredients. I used ½ of a medium cabbage, 4 medium carrots and a small red onion. Shallots are optional!

Chopped cabbage and grated carrots in a metal bowl on a wooden surface, with a knife next to the ingredients.

Step 2: After the carrots are shredded, slice the cabbage down from the top about ¾ of the way to the root. Chiffonade from here for easy shredded cabbage.

A bowl of coleslaw ingredients with shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced red onions.

Step 3: Slice the red onions very thin. I used about ½ of a medium red onion. Add more or less according to your taste.

💡 My Pro Tip

Core the cabbage before making the coleslaw to avoid bitter, dense chunks. To core the cabbage, cut it in half from stem to root. Then, slice out the core by cutting at an angle from both sides of the stem and discard it. Don't worry if the cabbage looks a bit messy; it'll be chopped up anyway!

Quick note: This salad is perfect for outdoor BBQs, but keep it out of direct sunlight since it contains mayonnaise.

⏲️ Time-Saving Tips

  • Buy a bag of pre-sliced coleslaw mix to save time.
  • Use a food processor or box grater to quickly shred the carrots and cabbage.
  • Mix the dressing ahead of time and store it in a separate bowl in the fridge.
  • Prepare the veggies in another bowl and store them in the fridge until ready to use.

What to Serve With the Coleslaw Recipe?

Coleslaw with sour cream can be paired with a variety of delicious dishes, enhancing each with its vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch. You can add the slaw mixture to a beef or chicken burger, or a pork sandwich to add more crunch. Here are a few more recipes to try:

  • BBQ Lamb Chops: This coleslaw recipe with sour cream goes well with the savory, smoky flavors of BBQ lamb chops, adding a refreshing crunch to each bite.
  • Oven-Roasted Chicken: Coleslaw's creamy texture balances well with tender, juicy oven-roasted chicken, providing a vibrant, crunchy element to the meal.
  • Tandoori Grilled Chicken: The coolness of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the spicy flavors of tandoori grilled chicken, offering a refreshing crunch alongside the bold spices.
  • Grilled Pork Chops With Peaches: Coleslaw's tanginess pairs beautifully with the savory, charred flavors of grilled pork chops, enhancing the meal with its crunchy texture.
  • Grilled Lamb Chops: The tangy crunch of the slaw complements the tender, flavorful lamb, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the grilled lamb chops.
A bowl of coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing, garnished with parsley, with a serving spoon placed inside the bowl.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage Tips:

  • Store this homemade coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. After that, the dressing may become thin. To refresh, drain off any excess liquid and add more mayonnaise if needed. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Reheating Tips:

  • This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and cold. Avoid heating as it may alter the texture and quality.

Freezing Tips:

  • Unfortunately, sour cream coleslaw dressing does not freeze well due to its creamy dressing. It's best made fresh and enjoyed promptly.

Recipe Conclusion

With its crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and creamy dressing, this Coleslaw Recipe is a surefire hit at any gathering. Whether it's a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, this best coleslaw recipe adds a burst of freshness and flavor to your plate. Plus, it's so easy to make—you'll be whipping up batches in no time!

Now, gather your ingredients and get chopping! Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful coleslaw, which will definitely turn out to be better than the store-bought coleslaw mix. Let the vibrant colors and tangy dressing elevate your meal. Don't wait—create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every crunchy bite. It's time to savor the simple pleasures of good food made with love. Please write in the comments any questions or suggestions you may have. Or, find us on Facebook or Instagram.

More Salad Recipes

Craving the similar refreshing crunch as this coleslaw recipe for your meal? Check out these:

FAQs

Traditional coleslaw is typically made of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing.

Yes, classic coleslaw recipes often contain mayonnaise as a key ingredient.

"Coleslaw" and "slaw" are often used interchangeably; however, "slaw" can refer to any salad made with shredded vegetables and dressing, while "coleslaw" specifically includes cabbage in its ingredients.

Green cabbage is the most commonly used, but purple cabbage is also a great option for adding color and crunch to your coleslaw.

Close-up of a spoonful of coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing being lifted above a bowl, garnished with parsley.

Easy Coleslaw Recipe

A simple and easy coleslaw recipe that is the perfect pairing for BBQ, pulled pork or the best side dish for a summer gathering. Simply delicious.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy coleslaw recipe, healthy coleslaw recipe, low carb coleslaw recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 205kcal
Author: Scott Groth

Ingredients

  • 4 medium carrots shredded
  • 1 tablespoon Erythritol sweetener
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ green cabbage cored and shredded
  • ½ small red onion sliced thinly (add more or less to taste)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ cup whole grain or stoneground mustard
  • Fresh cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Gather all the tools and ingredients for this recipe.
  • Core and shred green cabbage.
  • Thinly slice small red onion.

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, add the shredded carrots, cabbage and onions. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, sweetener, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
  • Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture. Mix well.
  • Serve cold and happy eating!

Notes

If you are serving this with pulled pork, add just a touch more mustard. You might also want to add in some shredded Granny Smith apples… they taste absolutely delicious paired with pork.
If you don’t have honey, substitute sugar.
Please keep in mind that all mustards have a different acid level. Some are low and some are high. If you have a mustard with low acid, add in just a touch of red wine vinegar to add some more punch to the sauce.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 205 Calories from Fat 171
% Daily Value*
Fat 19g29%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Trans Fat 0.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat 10g
Monounsaturated Fat 4g
Cholesterol 17mg6%
Sodium 400mg17%
Potassium 238mg7%
Carbohydrates 9g3%
Fiber 3g12%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 2g4%
Vitamin A 5260IU105%
Vitamin C 23mg28%
Calcium 56mg6%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”

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2 Responses

  1. 5 stars
    Thanks for bringing this to our party over the weekend. So yummy I had to come and check out the recipe. We will make this again!

5 from 1 vote

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Scott Groth image for I'd Rather Be A Chef

I'm Scott, just a regular guy who has experienced amazing benefits from embracing a low carb (occasionally keto) lifestyle. Join me as I share low carb recipes that are family friendly, delicious and fun to eat.

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