This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw is a refreshing side that’s perfect for picnics and barbecues! Crunchy cabbage and carrots are tossed in a zesty vinegar dressing that wakes up your taste buds.
Making this coleslaw is a breeze! I love how the vinegar gives it a little zing, plus it pairs perfectly with grilled meats. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here, adding crunch and volume. If you can’t find fresh green cabbage, you can use Napa cabbage for a milder flavor or even purple cabbage for a pop of color!
Carrot: Freshly shredded carrot adds sweetness and color. For convenience, you could use pre-packaged shredded carrots or otherwise skip them altogether if you’re in a pinch.
Onion: The white onion adds an extra zing. If you’re not a big onion fan, you can leave it out or substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is my go-to for its tangy flavor. You could also use white vinegar or rice vinegar based on what’s available and your personal taste preferences.
Sugar: Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. For a healthier version, honey or maple syrup could work just fine as substitutes—just adjust the amount to your taste.
How Do You Get the Best Flavors from the Dressing?
Getting a great flavor from your dressing is crucial! Start by mixing your vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices in a separate bowl. This step is essential to dissolve the sugar and salt before adding it to the vegetables.
- Mix until sugar and salt are fully dissolved—this ensures an even flavor throughout the coleslaw.
- Let the dressing sit for a few minutes after mixing so the flavors have a chance to develop.
- For even better taste, allow the coleslaw to chill for an hour or overnight. This gives the veggies time to soak up that tangy goodness!
Remember, the longer it sits, the better it tastes—or so they say!
Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
- 1/2 small white onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. If you prefer more depth of flavor, you can refrigerate it for an hour or even overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, and thinly sliced onion (if you’re using it). This colorful mix of vegetables forms the base of your coleslaw.
2. Make The Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seeds (if using) along with the olive oil. Mix well until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. This ensures that the flavors blend beautifully.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the tangy dressing over the cabbage mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly to make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Let It Rest:
Allow the coleslaw to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors to blend. For even more tangy goodness, refrigerate the coleslaw for about 1 hour or overnight, stirring occasionally to keep everything mixed.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Your refreshing coleslaw is ready to be served! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. It goes perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any main dish you love!
This coleslaw is crisp, tangy, and lightly sweetened—a delightful addition to any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix can save you time. Just measure out around 6 cups and skip the shredding step. You can still add your own shredded carrot and onion for extra texture and flavor!
How Long Will the Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
This coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It might become a bit softer as it sits, but the flavor will continue to develop!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Coleslaw?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. You can add diced apples, raisins, or even chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Just remember to adjust the sugar in the dressing if using sweeter ingredients.
Is This Coleslaw Gluten-Free?
Yes, this coleslaw is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just be sure that any ingredients you add are also gluten-free if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities.
