Cole slaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQs, picnics, and just about any summer meal. While the base of coleslaw might be the same—cabbage, carrots, and sometimes a little onion—the dressing is where you can really make it your own. Here are five easy recipes for cole slaw dressing that can elevate your coleslaw from good to great.
Creamy Coleslaw Dressing
The traditional creamy coleslaw dressing is a staple in many households. This version uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry:
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup
- Vinegar (apple cider or white wine): 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1⁄2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1⁄4 teaspoon
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. For a richer taste, add a dash of celery seed or mustard seed.
Tangy Mustard Dressing
For those who prefer a bit of a kick, mustard can add a nice tang to your coleslaw:
- Mayonnaise: 1⁄2 cup
- Dijon or Whole Grain Mustard: 2 tablespoons
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon
- Chives or Green Onion, finely chopped: 1 tablespoon
Whisk together the mayonnaise and mustard, then add vinegar and sweetener. Mix in the chopped chives for a fresh twist.
🌟 Note: This dressing is also excellent on potato salad for an extra tangy flavor.
Herb-Infused Yogurt Dressing
For a lighter, healthier option, yogurt dressings can be a delightful change:
- Plain Greek Yogurt: 1 cup
- Fresh Dill, finely chopped: 1 tablespoon
- Parsley, finely chopped: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic, minced: 1 clove
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. This dressing brings a refreshing and light touch to your coleslaw.
Spicy Coleslaw Dressing
If you enjoy heat, this spicy coleslaw dressing will wake up your taste buds:
- Mayonnaise: 3⁄4 cup
- Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Chili Powder: 1⁄2 teaspoon
- Cumin: 1⁄4 teaspoon
Combine all ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Add more or less hot sauce to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
Sweet and Savory Coleslaw Dressing
This dressing strikes a balance between sweet and savory, making it versatile for many dishes:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1⁄2 cup
- Sugar: 1⁄3 cup
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Green Onion, chopped: 2 tablespoons
Heat the vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan until sugar dissolves, then cool. Mix with other ingredients for a dressing that has an Asian flair.
✅ Note: If the dressing is too intense, dilute it with a bit of water or olive oil.
Each of these dressings brings its own unique flavor profile to the table, ensuring that your coleslaw stands out at any gathering. Experiment with these recipes, mix and match to find your perfect coleslaw dressing, or use them to inspire your own creations. Whether you're aiming for creamy, tangy, light, spicy, or a bit of everything, there's a dressing here to suit your taste.
Can I make these dressings ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare these dressings in advance. Most can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give them a good stir or shake before using to ensure they’re well combined.
How do I keep my coleslaw crisp?
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After making the dressing, store it separately from the coleslaw mix. Combine just before serving to prevent the slaw from getting soggy. Also, consider salting the cabbage and squeezing out excess moisture before dressing.
Can I make a vegan coleslaw dressing?
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Absolutely! For creamy options, use vegan mayonnaise or silken tofu. For vinegar-based dressings, you’re already close to vegan—just make sure to use a sweetener like maple syrup or agave if the recipe calls for sugar.
What can I add to coleslaw to make it more interesting?
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Consider adding ingredients like shredded apple for sweetness, raisins or dried cranberries for chewiness, nuts for crunch, or even herbs like cilantro for a fresh taste. Experimenting with different vegetables like radishes or fennel can also offer unique flavors.
What’s the best way to mix the dressing with the coleslaw?
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Add the dressing gradually, tossing the slaw as you go. This helps distribute the dressing evenly without over-drenching the mix. Use a fork or tongs to lift and toss, ensuring every piece gets coated.
