Delicious Cole Slaw Recipes to Elevate Your Barbecue Game

There's something truly magical about the combination of smoky, grilled meats and the crisp, refreshing crunch of a well-made cole slaw. This timeless side dish has the ability to elevate your barbecue game from good to great. Whether you're hosting a small backyard cookout or a grand summer gathering, cole slaw can be the perfect complement to your feast. Let's delve into some delicious cole slaw recipes that can make your barbecues unforgettable.

The Classic Creamy Cole Slaw

Starting with the basics, the classic creamy cole slaw is a must-have. Here’s what you need:

• 1 head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of celery seed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to combine.
4. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.

🍽 Note: The cabbage will release moisture, making the cole slaw even creamier over time. Adjust the dressing's thickness if preparing in advance.

Sweet and Tangy Apple Cole Slaw

For those who prefer a touch of sweetness with their tang, this apple cole slaw is a delightful alternative:

• 1 medium green cabbage, shredded
• 2 Granny Smith apples, julienned or shredded
• ¹⁄₂ cup of Greek yogurt
• ¹⁄₄ cup of apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons of honey
• ¹⁄₄ cup of raisins (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Combine cabbage, apples, and raisins in a bowl.
2. Whisk together yogurt, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to combine.

Spicy Asian Cole Slaw

Want to add some heat and exotic flavors to your barbecue? Try this spicy Asian cole slaw:

• 1 small head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup of cilantro, chopped
• 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 teaspoon of Sriracha or chili paste
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of dry-roasted peanuts (optional)

Steps:

1. Combine the cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, cilantro, and green onions in a large bowl.
2. In another bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and Sriracha to create the dressing.
3. Toss the salad with the dressing, and if using, top with peanuts for extra crunch.

🔥 Note: For an extra kick, feel free to add more Sriracha or fresh chili slices. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Vegan Cole Slaw with Mustard Dressing

Catering to vegans or those avoiding dairy? This mustard-based cole slaw is flavorful without compromise:

• 1 head of red cabbage, shredded
• ¹⁄₂ cup of shredded fennel bulb
• ¹⁄₄ cup of extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Shred the cabbage and fennel into a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, mustard, vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw, mix well, and let it sit for at least 20 minutes to marinate.

From classic to adventurous, these cole slaw recipes provide a variety of flavors to enhance your barbecue experience. Cole slaw not only offers a delightful crunch but also brings a balance of flavors with its inherent versatility. Remember, the beauty of cole slaw lies in its ability to adapt to whatever you pair it with, whether it's rich and savory meats or lighter vegetarian options. Enjoy the process of mixing, tasting, and perfecting your slaw to find what works best for your palate and the preferences of your guests.

Can I make cole slaw ahead of time?

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Yes, you can make cole slaw in advance. In fact, many believe that it tastes better when prepared a few hours ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. Just be sure to refrigerate it and give it a quick toss before serving.

How long will cole slaw last in the fridge?

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Cole slaw can last 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator, provided it is stored in an airtight container. Check for any signs of spoilage like sour smell or sliminess before consuming.

Can I use pre-made salad dressing for cole slaw?

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Yes, while homemade dressings can be customized to taste, many store-bought dressings like coleslaw dressing or vinaigrettes can work well. However, adjust quantities to avoid overpowering the vegetables with too much sugar or vinegar.

What can I do with leftover cole slaw?

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Consider incorporating it into sandwiches, wraps, or use it as a topping for tacos. You could also blend it into a cold soup or even stir it into some scrambled eggs for a morning twist.