This Easy Dill Pickle Coleslaw is a crunchy and zesty side dish that adds a twist to your meals. It’s made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dill pickle dressing!
It’s the perfect way to use up those pickles you have in the fridge. Honestly, I could eat this coleslaw straight from the bowl—so fresh and full of flavor! 🥗
Making this coleslaw is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients, chill it for a bit, and you’re ready to enjoy a cool, tasty treat at your next barbecue or picnic.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coleslaw Mix: A pre-packaged coleslaw mix is super convenient and saves time. If you can’t find it, you can use your own shredded cabbage and carrots. About 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots will work fine!
Mayonnaise: I prefer classic mayo for its rich texture, but you can swap it for Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It adds a slight tang and keeps it creamy!
Dill Pickle Juice: This is key for that tangy flavor. If you don’t have dill pickles, you can use any pickled vegetable juice or even apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a little kick! If you want it milder, yellow mustard is a great alternative. You could also leave it out if you’re not a fan of mustard.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices add depth. If you have fresh garlic or onion, feel free to use them instead—just remember to adjust the amount since they’re stronger!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Coleslaw?
The key to a flavorful coleslaw is letting it chill! This allows the flavors to blend and the vegetables to soften slightly. Here’s how to make sure it’s perfect:
- Mix your dressing well to combine all the flavors before tossing it into the vegetables.
- Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit longer. This intensifies the taste!
- Before serving, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Enjoy this tangy twist on classic coleslaw at your next meal! It’s easy, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Easy Dill Pickle Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (shredded green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice (from the jar)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 dill pickles, chopped (plus a couple whole for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Dill Pickle Coleslaw takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, about 40 minutes from start to finish, but most of that time is just letting it chill and get tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Coleslaw Mix:
Start by adding the coleslaw mix into a large mixing bowl. This mix is the base of your crunchy salad and provides that lovely texture!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Keep mixing until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Toss the Vegetables:
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix in the larger bowl. Use a fork or salad tongs to toss everything together, ensuring that all the vegetables are nicely coated in that creamy, tangy goodness.
4. Add the Pickles:
Gently fold in the chopped dill pickles. This adds that extra burst of flavor and crunch that we love in this coleslaw!
5. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chill time allows the flavors to blend beautifully, and the coleslaw gets super refreshing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir. You can garnish it with whole dill pickles on top for extra flair! Serve it chilled as a delicious side dish at your next barbecue, picnic, or family dinner!
This creamy coleslaw is not only easy to make, but it also delivers a bright, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Cabbage Instead of a Pre-Packaged Mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can shred about 4 cups of green cabbage and 1 cup of carrots to replace the coleslaw mix. This way, you can customize the cut and freshness.
How Should I Store Leftover Coleslaw?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It may become a little softer over time, but the flavors will continue to meld. Just give it a stir before enjoying!
Can I Make This Coleslaw in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw up to a day ahead of time. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated so it stays fresh and tasty. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine the dressing!
What If I Don’t Like Dill Pickles?
If dill pickles aren’t your thing, you can substitute with sweet pickles or omit them altogether! You can also experiment with other pickled vegetables like jalapeños or even add some chopped apples for sweetness.
