Coleslaw, also known as “slaw,” is a classic southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Traditional Southern Coleslaw Dressing recipe is a simple yet delicious combination of shredded cabbage and other vegetables, usually dressed with a mayonnaise-based dressing. The dish is believed to have originated in the Netherlands and was brought to the southern United States by Dutch settlers in the 17th century.
The traditional southern coleslaw dressing recipe calls for a combination of shredded green cabbage, carrots, and onions. Here I am substituting red cabbage for all of the picky non-onion easter. The vegetables are tossed together in a large bowl and then dressed with a simple mayonnaise-based dressing.
The dressing typically includes mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and a variety of seasonings such as celery seed, black pepper, and salt. The slaw is then chilled in the refrigerator for several hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften.
One of the great things about coleslaw is its versatility. While the traditional recipe is a staple at many southern picnics and barbecues, it can also be easily adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions. For example, you can make a low-fat version by using a reduced-fat mayonnaise or a non-dairy alternative such as sour cream or yogurt.
You can also make a sweeter version by adding more sugar to the dressing or a tangier version by adding more vinegar. Some variations also include additional ingredients like apples, raisins, or nuts to give it a crunchy texture. You can even make a keto friendly version substituting the sugar for Stevia.
Another popular variation of coleslaw is the “red” coleslaw. This version uses red cabbage instead of green cabbage, giving it a unique color and slightly different flavor. The red cabbage is also a bit sweeter than the green cabbage, which makes it perfect for those who like a sweeter slaw. Some red coleslaw recipes also include red onion instead of white onion, which adds a nice pop of color and a slightly different flavor profile.
Coleslaw is a staple at many southern picnics and barbecues. It’s a perfect side dish for pulled pork, ribs, or fried chicken, and it’s also great on sandwiches and burgers. It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables in the fridge.
Traditional Southern Coleslaw Dressing can be made a day or two in advance, which makes it perfect for busy families or for entertaining.
Coleslaw is a classic southern dish that is simple to make yet delicious and versatile. The traditional recipe is a combination of shredded green cabbage, carrots, and onions, dressed with a simple mayonnaise-based dressing.
However, it can be easily adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions. Whether you’re a fan of a sweeter or tangier version, coleslaw is a perfect side dish for any southern meal, picnic or barbecue. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers and it can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
Ingredients in Traditional Southern Coleslaw Dressing:
- Mayonnaise for all of the creaminess.
- Apple cider vinegar give the coleslaw a tangy and slightly sweet taste.
- Dijon mustard which has a tangy and pungent flavor, with a slightly sweet and nutty taste.
- A tad bit of sugar to round out pungent flavor of the Dijon mustard.
- Lemon juice because you always need a touch of acid
- Celery salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning.
How to make Traditional Southern Coleslaw Dressing:
This is the easiest coleslaw dressing that you will ever make. Simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl.
Mix together well.
Pour over pre-shredded coleslaw mix.
Toss well to coat.
This coleslaw is prefect paired with my Chipotle Chicken Sandwich!!
___________________________________________________________________________
If you love it, leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you and this would help me with future recipes!
Contact me if you would like to see any of your childhood favorites updated or reinvented.
___________________________________________________________________________
Traditional Southern Coleslaw Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1.5 tsp tsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix well. Serve tossed with a 16 oz bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix.
