Recipe Notes

Pro Tips for Perfect Cole slaw Dressing Every Time

1. Don’t overdress your coleslaw no matter how tempting it is. Add just enough dressing to coat the salad.
2. Add dressing gradually to the cups of shredded cabbage. You can always add more, but  you can’t remove excess.
3. Let this creamy coleslaw recipe rest for 30 minutes for the consistency and flavors to blend well. You can have it rested in a bowl or after dressing your salad.
4. Coleslaw always tastes better after sitting for 2 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. So make this in advance and enjoy the convenience!
5. To prevent watery slaw, you can lightly salt shredded cabbage first (or head of cabbage) and let it sit. Drain excess moisture before mixing.
6. Use full fat Mayonnaise for a creamy thick and best coleslaw dressing! Low fat versions tend to separate and create a thinner dressing consistency.
7. Adding in sour cream or yogurt with the mayo helps cut through the richness by adding a layer of tang and brightness.

Flavor Variations

• Southern Style Coleslaw Dressing: Slightly sweeter with a touch of yellow mustard and plenty of buttermilk.
• Tangy Vinegar: Increase acidity and reduce sweetness for BBQ pairings or hamburgers.
• Healthier: Replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
• Keto Friendly: Use a sugar substitute to maintain sweetness without carbs.
• Sweet Zesty: Use honey, orange juice or lemon, citrus zest, and vinegar

How Long Does Coleslaw Dressing Last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to 6 days. Whisk before using if separation occurs and adjust any extra seasoning if needed. It's best not to freeze the dressing because the texture will change dramatically.

What is traditional coleslaw dressing made of?

Traditional coleslaw dressing is made from simple ingredients. It includes mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Some versions include mustard or celery seed for additional flavor depth.

Why is my coleslaw watery?

Coleslaw becomes watery when cabbage releases too much moisture after being dressed. Or if you use low fat mayonnaise, or use a thin dressing to start with. Keep in mind the dressing will thin out when tossed with the salad, to while you adjust the consistency of the dressing, make it slightly thicker than you want.

Can I make coleslaw dressing ahead of time?

Yes. It actually improves in flavor when made several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What vinegar is best for coleslaw dressing?

Apple cider vinegar is most common because it offers mild sweetness and depth. White vinegar works but is sharper.

How do restaurants make coleslaw taste better?

Restaurants often will use full fat mayonnaise so it has a super creamy texture. They would also add celery seed and probably Dijon mustard for depth. The dressing is most likely rested and chilled for a couple hours so the flavors are deep. And of course, overall the coleslaw drssing is well balanced in terms of acidity and sweetness.

Can I make coleslaw dressing without mayonnaise?

Yes. You can create a vinegar based version using oil and vinegar for a lighter, non creamy option. You can also make a yogurt only or sour cream only based dressing.

Is coleslaw dressing the same as Thousand Island dressing?

No. Thousand Island contains ketchup and relish, while coleslaw dressing is simpler and more tangy.

What’s the difference between coleslaw dressing and regular salad dressing?

Coleslaw dressing is thicker and sweeter so it clings to shredded vegetables, while salad dressings are lighter and thin, designed to coat leafy greens.

Can I make coleslaw dressing ahead of time?

Yes, it actually gets better after resting for a few hours. Store in the fridge up to 6 days.

Is coleslaw dressing healthy?

It depends on ingredients. Use Greek yogurt or olive oil instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, nutrient rich option.

Can I freeze coleslaw dressing?

Not recommended. Emulsified dressings (mayo-based dressing or yogurt based) can separate when thawed.

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes, by using vegan mayo and choose vegan yogurt if desired to blend it in. You can also use maple syrup for sweetness.

How to Serve coleslaw?

• Use it as a perfect side dish on its own.
• Best topping or side to Chicken Sliders or Cheeseburger Sliders.
• Fried chicken
• Burgers
• Fish tacos, Flank Steak Tacos, Lamb Tacos, Ground Chicken Tacos.
• Crawfish Boil, Mayonnaise Biscuits with Hot Honey Chicken