This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw is fresh and crunchy, making it a perfect side for any meal. With crispy cabbage, carrots, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it’s bright and delicious!
Making this coleslaw is a breeze—just chop, mix, and toss! I love serving it with grilled burgers; it adds a nice crunch that everyone enjoys. It’s a hit at picnics too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this coleslaw. Its crunchiness holds up well against the tangy dressing. If you’re looking for a twist, red cabbage adds a pop of color and sweetness!
Carrot: A large grated carrot adds sweetness and color. You can swap it with shredded broccoli stalks or even diced bell peppers if you prefer a different flavor.
Onion: The addition of thinly sliced onion is optional, but it gives an extra layer of flavor. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, try green onions or leave it out altogether.
Vinegar: I use a mix of apple cider vinegar and white vinegar for a balanced tang. If you want something milder, try rice vinegar, or use more apple cider vinegar for sweetness.
Oil: Vegetable oil is ideal, but you can use light olive oil or canola oil. For a richer taste, consider using sesame oil, but use it sparingly.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Emulsified Dressing?
Creating an emulsified dressing ensures that all the flavors mix well and coat the vegetables evenly. It’s super easy! Follow these steps:
- Start by whisking the vinegars, sugar, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- When you add the oil, do it slowly while continuously whisking. This helps the oil blend in smoothly.
- The aim is to create a slightly thick dressing; if it separates, just whisk it again before pouring over the cabbage.
This simple technique makes a huge difference and really infuses your coleslaw with flavor!
How to Make Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or light olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s quick to make, and the resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by shredding the green cabbage and grating the carrot. You can use a sharp knife for the cabbage or a box grater for the carrot. If you’re including onion, thinly slice it as well. Place all the veggies in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seed (if using). Keep whisking until the sugar and salt have fully dissolved—you want to create a smooth dressing.
3. Combine Oil and Dressing:
While whisking the dressing, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil. This step is important for emulsifying the dressing, making it creamy and well mixed. Continue to whisk until everything is combined.
4. Toss the Coleslaw:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and use tongs or two forks to toss everything together. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cabbage a chance to soften a bit. Just before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir, taste to adjust seasoning if necessary, and it’s all ready to enjoy!
This coleslaw is a fantastic, tangy addition to any meal! It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing salad. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix can save you time. Just make sure it includes shredded cabbage and carrots, and then mix it with the dressing as directed in the recipe. Adjust the quantities of dressing if needed based on the amount of mix.
How Long Does This Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
This coleslaw can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. Keep in mind that the cabbage may soften a bit over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, so it’s a perfect side dish for vegans and those who enjoy plant-based meals.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely customize your coleslaw! Consider adding bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced snap peas for extra crunch and flavor. Experiment with your favorite vegetables to make it your own!
