The Best Homemade Coleslaw Dressing Recipe

Tangy, creamy homemade coleslaw dressing that beats store-bought—just 5 minutes to make and perfect for any BBQ or sandwich. Try it today!

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade coleslaw dressing is a game-changer for your salads, bringing fresh, tangy flavors to every bite. It’s quick to make, customizable, and way better than store-bought versions. You’ll love how creamy it gets without being heavy, perfect for pairing with crunchy veggies. Plus, it’s packed with simple, wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. And the best part? You can whip it up in just minutes, making it a stress-free addition to any meal!

Recipe

tangy homemade coleslaw dressing

This homemade coleslaw dressing recipe is simple, fresh, and perfect for adding a tangy kick to your coleslaw. Made with basic pantry staples, it comes together quickly and elevates any coleslaw dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Pour the dressing over shredded cabbage and carrots, toss to coat evenly, and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes:

  • For a creamier texture, you can add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
  • Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by increasing or decreasing the sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
  • Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Equipment:

Medium mixing bowl, whisk

Time:

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

Makes enough dressing for 4 cups of shredded cabbage and carrots (serves 4-6).

Nutrition

This homemade coleslaw dressing is a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, offering a balance of flavor and nutrition. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving (2 tablespoons).

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories120 kcal
Total Fat12g
Saturated Fat2g
Cholesterol5mg
Sodium150mg
Total Carbs3g
Sugars2g
Protein0.5g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing coleslaw with classic dishes like BBQ ribs or burgers, but I’ve also discovered it works wonders with unexpected sides, like tacos or falafel. Sometimes I’ll even toss it onto a sandwich for extra crunch and flavor. It’s amazing how versatile this simple side can be!

Classic Pairing Ideas

When you’ve whipped up a batch of creamy homemade coleslaw dressing, you’ll want something just as delicious to serve it with. I love pairing it with crispy fried chicken—the cool crunch of the slaw balances the rich, savory flavors perfectly. Pulled pork sandwiches are another favorite, especially when the tangy slaw cuts through the smoky meat. For a lighter option, try it alongside grilled hot dogs or burgers at your next barbecue. Even a simple fish taco gets a fresh upgrade with a spoonful of coleslaw. These classic combos never disappoint, and they’ll make your meal feel extra special.

Unexpected Side Dishes

Looking beyond the usual pairings, let’s get creative with what to serve alongside coleslaw. Try it with crispy fish tacos—the crunch contrasts perfectly with the creamy slaw. Or spoon it over a loaded baked potato for a tangy twist. Ever thought of pairing it with pulled pork sliders? The sweetness of the meat balances the slaw’s zing. For something lighter, toss it with quinoa and roasted veggies. Even grilled cheese gets a upgrade with a coleslaw side. Don’t shy away from unexpected combos—sometimes the best flavors come from mixing things up. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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