Summer just got a whole lot cooler! When the temperatures rise, our cravings for refreshing, creamy sides like coleslaw skyrocket. But who says this classic condiment has to be boring? From tangy twists to sweet surprises, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering creamy coleslaw recipes that will take your BBQs, picnics, and potlucks to the next level.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional mayonnaise-based slaws or prefer lighter, brighter flavors, we’ve got something for everyone. Get ready to add some serious flavor to your summer gatherings with our collection of creamy coleslaw recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Classic Creamy Coleslaw with Mayonnaise
A creamy and tangy coleslaw that’s a perfect accompaniment to your favorite barbecue dishes or as a side salad for grilled meats. This classic recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Tangy Buttermilk Coleslaw with Carrots
A refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw recipe, this tangy buttermilk slaw adds a sweet and crunchy element with grated carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw with Honey Mustard Dressing
Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw with Honey Mustard Dressing: A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the tanginess of honey mustard dressing with the spicy kick of red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This slaw is best served fresh, but can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Creamy Apple Coleslaw with Walnuts
This sweet and tangy coleslaw is perfect for fall gatherings or as a side dish for your next barbecue. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds texture and flavor to this creamy apple slaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated apples (Granny Smith work well)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated apples.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in the chopped walnuts and parsley.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled.
Southern-Style Coleslaw with Celery Seed
A classic Southern side dish that’s crunchy, tangy, and perfect for accompanying BBQ, fried chicken, or as a topping for burgers. This recipe adds a unique twist with the addition of celery seed for an extra depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, black pepper, and celery seed.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Avocado Lime Coleslaw with Cilantro
This creamy coleslaw gets a boost of flavor and nutrition from the addition of ripe avocados, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro. Perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats, this slaw is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served fresh, but it can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Greek Yogurt Coleslaw with Dill
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, dill, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek Yogurt Coleslaw with Dill!
Bacon Ranch Coleslaw with Blue Cheese
Elevate your coleslaw game with this rich and tangy recipe that combines the creaminess of blue cheese, the smokiness of bacon, and the freshness of ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon blue cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, and crumbled bacon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until smooth.
3. Add the blue cheese crumbles to the mayonnaise mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Coleslaw with Sesame Dressing
A twist on the classic coleslaw, this Asian-inspired version combines the crunch of shredded vegetables with the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tips: For an extra crunchy slaw, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. You can also add toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for added texture.
Creamy Jalapeño Coleslaw with Corn
Elevate your BBQ game with this refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw! This creamy, spicy slaw is perfect for hot summer days and pairs well with grilled meats or as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, and chopped jalapeño.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in corn kernels.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Pineapple Coleslaw with Coconut Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, pineapple, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut cream, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Smoky Chipotle Coleslaw with Lime Crema
Elevate your barbecue game with this creamy and spicy slaw, infused with the rich flavors of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers until smooth.
3. Pour the crema mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes, chill time: 10 minutes)
Red Cabbage Coleslaw with Poppy Seed Dressing
This refreshing coleslaw recipe combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with a tangy and crunchy poppy seed dressing, perfect for accompanying your favorite summer dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 small head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Stir in the poppy seeds.
4. Drain the excess vinegar from the cabbage mixture and add it to the dressing mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 6-8
Maple Dijon Coleslaw with Pecans
This refreshing coleslaw combines the tanginess of Dijon mustard, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the crunch of toasted pecans for a unique side dish perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in toasted pecans.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Vegan Coleslaw with Cashew Cream
A refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw, this vegan version features a creamy cashew-based dressing that’s free from dairy and just as delicious. This slaw is perfect for topping sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
5. Pour the cashew cream over the slaw and toss to coat.
6. Stir in chopped cilantro.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Spicy Sriracha Coleslaw with Peanuts
This refreshing coleslaw gets a spicy kick from sriracha sauce and crunchy texture from toasted peanuts. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite barbecue dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and salt. Massage with your hands for about 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in chopped peanuts.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Crunchy Ramen Coleslaw with Almonds
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the crunch of ramen noodles with the sweetness of red cabbage and a hint of nutty flavor from toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup ramen noodles, crushed into small pieces
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, crushed ramen noodles, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in chopped toasted almonds.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes)
Herbed Coleslaw with Tarragon and Chives
This refreshing slaw combines the classic flavors of coleslaw with the subtle nuances of tarragon and chives. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a crunchy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped tarragon and chives to the dressing and stir to combine.
4. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet Pickle Coleslaw with Red Onion
Add a tangy twist to your classic coleslaw recipe by incorporating sweet pickle juice and the crunch of red onion. This refreshing side dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a topping for your favorite sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sweet pickle juice
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and sweet pickle juice. Toss until the slaw is evenly coated.
2. Stir in mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the slaw mixture and toss gently to distribute.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Loaded Coleslaw with Bacon and Cheddar
Elevate your barbecue game with this creamy, crunchy, and indulgently loaded coleslaw recipe, featuring crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in a flash.
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 delicious and creamy coleslaw recipes! From classic combinations to unique twists, there’s something for everyone. Try making a tangy buttermilk coleslaw with carrots, or go sweet and spicy with honey mustard dressing. Or, why not try adding some crunch with walnuts or smokiness with chipotle peppers? Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Get ready to slaw the party this summer!
