This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that’s packed with crisp cabbage and a zesty vinegar dressing. It’s perfect for barbeques and picnics!
Honestly, I love how quick it comes together. Just chop, mix, and let it chill! It’s like a party in a bowl—so bright and tasty, you’ll want to share it with everyone! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this coleslaw. Its crunchy texture is essential. However, feel free to mix in purple cabbage for color or even add some napa cabbage for a softer bite!
Carrot: The grated carrot adds a nice sweetness. You can substitute it with shredded bell pepper or even jicama for a different crunch if you’re looking to avoid carrots.
Onion: A small onion gives the salad a bit of zing. If you prefer milder flavors, green onions or shallots work well too. If you’re sensitive to onion, omitting it is just fine!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity tang, but white vinegar works just as well. For a different twist, try rice vinegar or red wine vinegar.
Oil: Vegetable oil is standard, but olive oil adds a nice flavor. If you’re making it healthier, you can reduce the oil by a tablespoon without sacrificing too much taste.
Celery seeds: These seeds give a unique touch, but if you don’t have them, caraway seeds or even dill could work as alternatives or simply skip them.
How Do I Make the Best Dressing?
The dressing is key to this coleslaw’s flavor. Make sure to whisk it until the sugar is dissolved completely—this helps all the flavors balance out. Here’s a simple process:
- Combine vinegar, sugar, oil, salt, pepper, and celery seeds in a small bowl.
- Whisk vigorously until smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved. This ensures the dressing covers the cabbage evenly.
- Feel free to taste it—I often add a pinch more sugar if I like it sweeter, or more vinegar for extra tang!
Remember, letting the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least an hour really enhances the flavors, so be patient!
Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded (about 8 cups)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced or grated
Dressing:
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. That’s the perfect amount of time for the flavors to mix together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by shredding your cabbage into fine slices and adding it to a large mixing bowl. Next, peel and grate the carrot, then thinly slice or grate the onion. Toss them together in the bowl until well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, salt, pepper, and optional celery seeds. Keep whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved and all ingredients are combined smoothly.
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure each piece of cabbage and veggies is coated with that tangy dressing for maximum flavor.
4. Chill the Coleslaw:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and the cabbage soften just a bit, making it more delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before you dig in, give it another toss to mix things up. Now it’s ready to serve! This coleslaw is crunchy, tangy, and lightly sweetened—an ideal side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches, perfect for picnics, or just munching on its own!
FAQ about Easy Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, you can also use purple cabbage for color or napa cabbage for a sweeter flavor and softer texture. A mix of different cabbages can create a beautiful and tasty coleslaw!
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, this coleslaw is great for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and give it a good toss before serving to refresh the dressing and ingredients.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. Keep in mind that the cabbage may soften more over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Serve with This Coleslaw?
This tangy vinegar coleslaw pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes. It also makes a refreshing side for picnics and potlucks. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light snack!
