When it comes to side dishes, few options are as versatile and delicious as creamy coleslaw. Whether you’re serving up BBQ favorites, tacos, or just looking for a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite meal, this classic condiment is always a crowd-pleaser. But why settle for the same old recipe when you can try something new?
In this article, we’ll explore 18 creamy coleslaw recipes that add a twist to the traditional formula. From sweet and crunchy pineapple slaws to spicy sriracha lime concoctions, these innovative takes on the classic will keep your taste buds engaged and your guests coming back for more.
Classic Creamy Coleslaw with Buttermilk Dressing
This refreshing slaw is a staple at many barbecues and picnics, perfect for balancing the richness of grilled meats and cheeses. With its creamy buttermilk dressing and crunchy cabbage, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded green cabbage
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Tangy Apple and Carrot Coleslaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of carrots, all tied together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Fold in the diced apples and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready to serve immediately.
Spicy Sriracha Lime Coleslaw
This refreshing coleslaw gets a kick from the spicy sriracha and a burst of citrus flavor from the lime juice. It’s perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or fish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Coleslaw
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Coleslaw Recipe
Transform your ordinary coleslaw into an exotic Asian-inspired delight with this easy and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Vinegar-Based Southern Coleslaw
This classic Southern coleslaw recipe is a tangy and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecue, fried chicken, or as a topping for your favorite sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Avocado Lime Coleslaw with Cilantro
Add a refreshing twist to traditional coleslaw with this creamy and zesty Avocado Lime Coleslaw recipe, featuring the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Add olive oil, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 5 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Sweet and Crunchy Pineapple Coleslaw
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of chopped pecans, making it a perfect side dish for grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup shredded green cabbage
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded red and green cabbage.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the pineapple chunks to the dressing mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is well coated.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Coleslaw with Dill
A refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw recipe, this Greek yogurt-based version adds a tangy and creamy element while still maintaining the crunch of shredded cabbage. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Jalapeño Lime Coleslaw for Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing Jalapeño Lime Coleslaw recipe! This zesty slaw adds a tangy and crunchy element to your tacos, perfect for a fiesta or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Add the jalapeño pepper to the dressing and stir well.
4. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Mustard Coleslaw with Bacon
Elevate your coleslaw game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the richness of bacon with a hint of maple syrup. This slaw is perfect for topping burgers, grilled meats, or enjoying as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Broccoli Slaw with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines crunchy broccoli florets with a tangy and creamy poppy seed dressing, perfect for topping burgers or sandwiches. With its vibrant green color and zesty flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle poppy seeds over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Kale Coleslaw with Almonds
A twist on the classic coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of red cabbage and kale with the crunch of almonds for a refreshing side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 small red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and chopped kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top of the slaw and toss again to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw
This vibrant coleslaw combines the flavors of Mexico with the classic comfort of a summer slaw, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with queso fresco or feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready in just a few minutes.
Blue Cheese and Walnut Coleslaw
This refreshing coleslaw combines the tanginess of blue cheese with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for a summer BBQ or picnic.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort work well)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, blue cheese, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
This coleslaw is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can also make it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Smoky Chipotle Coleslaw for BBQ
Elevate your BBQ game with this smoky twist on classic coleslaw! This recipe combines the tanginess of mayonnaise, the spiciness of chipotles, and the crunch of fresh cabbage to create a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise.
2. Add apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This coleslaw is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Pickled Coleslaw with Turmeric and Ginger
Elevate your slaw game with this tangy and aromatic pickled coleslaw recipe, infused with the warm flavors of turmeric and ginger. Perfect as a side dish or topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, salt, and pepper. Massage the mixture with your hands for about 5 minutes to help soften the cabbage.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, turmeric powder, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the slaw mixture and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Peanut Butter Coleslaw with Crunchy Noodles
A creamy twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with crunchy noodles and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz. crunchy noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, peanut butter, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cumin.
2. Mix until well combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cook crunchy noodles according to package instructions.
4. Add cooked noodles to the slaw mixture and toss to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fennel and Orange Coleslaw with Honey Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of oranges and honey with the crunch of fennel, perfect for a light and healthy side dish or topping for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and orange segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fennel mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including refrigeration time)
Summary
Get ready to shake up your coleslaw game! This collection of creamy coleslaw recipes features unique twists on classic flavors. From the tangy combination of apple and carrot to the spicy kick of sriracha lime, there’s something for every palate. Try adding a Greek yogurt dressing with dill, or a smoky chipotle flavor for BBQ. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the peanut butter coleslaw with crunchy noodles or the pickled version with turmeric and ginger. With 18 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this refreshing side dish again!
