Classic Coleslaw

Some side dishes just seem to show up at every barbecue, picnic, and family get-together, and classic coleslaw is one of them. This easy recipe starts with a bag of coleslaw mix and a simple homemade dressing, so it comes together in just a few minutes. Let it chill for a bit before serving, and the flavors only get better.

A splash of dill pickle juice gives the dressing a nice little kick, and green onions add a mild onion flavor without taking over. We make this whenever we’re smoking pulled pork or brisket, but it’s just as good with burgers, fried chicken, or hot dogs.

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Why You’ll Love This

If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss coleslaw recipe, this is the one. I don’t like a sweet and sugary coleslaw, so this is my favorite go-to slaw recipe. I typically just whip it up with my heart and no measuring.

• Ready in about 10 minutes.
• Uses a convenient bag of coleslaw mix.
• Creamy with just the right amount of tang.
• Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
• Even better after chilling for an hour.
• Pairs with just about any grilled or smoked meat.

Looking for more easy side dish recipes? Try our Green Bean Potato Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing (No Mayo), Summer Succotash, Rosemary Garlic Grilled Baby Potato Skewers, Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans, and Classic Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe.

Ingredients Needed

You only need a few everyday ingredients to make this creamy coleslaw.

• Coleslaw mix – A 16-ounce bag of shredded cabbage and carrots makes prep incredibly easy. Or you can shred your own cabbage and carrots using a food processor or box grater.
• Green onions – The green tops add a mild onion flavor without being overpowering.
• Mayonnaise – Creates the rich, creamy base for the dressing. We usually use Duke’s mayonnaise, but any good quality mayonnaise works well.
• Dill pickle juice – The dill pickle juice adds just enough tang to brighten the dressing without overpowering the cabbage, giving this slaw a fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with barbecue.
• Garlic powder – Gives the dressing savory depth.
• Kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• Ground black pepper – Adds a little bite.

How To Make Classic Coleslaw

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, green onions, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Add the slaw mix to the coleslaw dressing and toss everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes minimum (2 hours recommended) before serving. If you have time, letting it chill for an hour or two lets the flavors meld even more. Give it one final toss before serving and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw is especially good piled onto pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken sandwiches, or served alongside burgers and hot dogs.

Tips

• Use shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix in the package. The prepackaged mix is just easier most of the time.
• Chill the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
• If the dressing seems a little thick, stir in another teaspoon or two of pickle juice.
• Taste before serving and adjust the salt or pepper if needed.
• Give the coleslaw a quick stir before serving, especially if it’s been sitting in the refrigerator.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This recipe is best enjoyed within two days. The cabbage will start to break down and become a little watery.

Variations

• Add a teaspoon of granulated sugar if you prefer a sweeter, more traditional coleslaw. Or use Miracle Whip Salad Dressing instead of mayo.
• Mix in chopped fresh dill for even more pickle flavor.
• Swap the dill pickle juice for apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or fresh lemon juice.
• Add shredded broccoli stems or additional red cabbage for extra color and crunch.
• Sprinkle in celery seed for an old-fashioned deli-style coleslaw.

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