Simple Homemade Creamy Coleslaw Dressing

January 15, 2025

Looking to level up your coleslaw game? This creamy, tangy, and oh-so-simple dressing is the secret! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a dressing so good, your veggies will thank you. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe—it’s time to mix and toss!

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Ah, coleslaw—the unsung hero of backyard barbecues, potlucks, and quick midweek dinners! But here’s the thing: the magic of coleslaw isn’t the crunchy veggies (though they are fabulous). The real star of the show is the dressing! Today, we’re talking about a simple homemade creamy coleslaw dressing that’s tangy, sweet, and just the right amount of luscious. This recipe is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought a bottle of the store-bought stuff in the first place. I mean, your carrots and cabbage deserve better, don’t they?

Simple Homemade Creamy Coleslaw Dressing Recipe

What makes this particular creamy dressing stand out? For starters, it’s a beautiful balance of creamy mayo, zingy apple cider vinegar, and a kiss of sweetness from either honey or sugar—your choice! A touch of Dijon mustard sneaks in for a little boldness, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of celery seed takes the flavor to the next level. It’s all about that harmonious dance of flavors that makes this dressing utterly addictive. Plus, you have full control over how tangy, sweet, or creamy you want it. No bland coleslaw here!

Now, want my secret pro-tip? Chill your dressing for at least 10-15 minutes before tossing it with your shredded veggies. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! This short rest allows all the flavors to mingle and develop beautifully. When adding the dressing, go slow—start with a little and add more as needed. The goal is to coat those veggies lightly, not drown them! Oh, and if you’re prepping ahead, don’t mix the dressing with the veggies until just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Whether you’re serving this coleslaw beside smoky barbecue ribs, layering it on top of pulled pork sandwiches, or even pairing it with spicy fried chicken, you can’t go wrong. Feeling creative? Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. And hey, if you’ve got leftovers, this dressing doubles as a great dip for crunchy veggies. So, go ahead—grab your whisk, and treat your coleslaw to the glow-up it deserves. Your taste buds will thank you!

Keywords: easy homemade coleslaw dressing, creamy coleslaw dressing recipe, tangy coleslaw dressing ideas, DIY coleslaw dressing no buttermilk, simple coleslaw dressing with vinegar, best creamy coleslaw recipe dressing

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1/2 cup mayonnaise
•2 tablespoons white vinegar
•1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
•1 tablespoon sugar
•1 teaspoon celery seed
•Salt, to taste
•Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
2
Whisk in the sugar and celery seed until well combined.
3
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4
Adjust the seasoning as needed based on personal preference.
5
Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Toss with shredded coleslaw mix or use as a dressing of choice.

Nutrition Information

Calories

120 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

Fat

11g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of white vinegar?

A: Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tanginess, while rice vinegar provides a milder, sweeter taste. Avoid using balsamic vinegar as it may overpower the dressing and alter the color.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for Dijon mustard?

A: If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard for a more classic, mild flavor or spicy brown mustard for a bolder taste. If mustard isn’t an option, you can add a small amount of prepared horseradish or a pinch of ground mustard powder for a similar tang.

Q: How do I fix the dressing if it's too tangy or too sweet?

A: If the dressing tastes too tangy, you can balance it by adding a little more sugar or an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise. If it's too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to cut through the sweetness. Adjust in small increments and taste as you go.

Q: Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

A: Yes, this dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.

Q: How do I store leftover coleslaw dressing?

A: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Stir or whisk it before using, as some separation may occur during storage.

Q: Can I use this dressing for something other than coleslaw?

A: Absolutely! This creamy dressing works well as a dip for fresh vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or even as a drizzle over roasted vegetables. It also pairs nicely with potato salad or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?

A: To make a lighter version, you can use low-fat or light mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise. Alternatively, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich option. Just keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

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