Name: Homemade Southern Coleslaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-491934H46M2S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 head of cabbage (red or green, about 8 cups); 2 large carrots (peeled); ¼ cup sweet onion (finely diced); 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley (finely chopped); ¾ cup mayonnaise (Paleo or vegan if needed); 1 ½ Tbsp. Dijon mustard; 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar; 1 Tbsp. sugar (optional); ¾ tsp. salt (to taste); ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)

Description

This homemade Southern coleslaw recipe offers a classic, creamy, and tangy side dish made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal, this easy-to-make recipe combines crisp vegetables with a smooth, slightly sweet dressing that can be customized to fit Paleo or vegan diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 head of cabbage (red or green, about 8 cups)
2 large carrots (peeled)
¼ cup sweet onion (finely diced)
2 Tbsp. fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Dressing

¾ cup mayonnaise (Paleo or vegan if needed)
1 ½ Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp. sugar (optional)
¾ tsp. salt (to taste)
¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

Prepare the cabbage: Cut and shred the cabbage into ⅛-inch thick slices approximately 2 inches long to ensure the classic coleslaw texture.
Shred the carrots: Use a large food processor with a grating attachment or a cheese grater to shred the peeled carrots finely for even mixing.
Make the dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Combine vegetables: Place the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, finely diced sweet onion, and chopped fresh parsley into a large mixing bowl.
Add dressing and mix: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat every piece thoroughly and evenly.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least one hour or up to overnight to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled with additional fresh parsley as garnish for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

Notes

For a Paleo or vegan version, use a compliant mayonnaise alternative.
The sugar is optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Coleslaw tastes best when allowed to chill for several hours to enhance the flavor melding.
Use either red or green cabbage depending on the desired color or flavor profile.
Fresh parsley adds a bright and fresh flavor but can be omitted or substituted with other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill.