Coleslaw Dressing Recipe – A Simple, Creamy Delight for Your Salads

If you love a good bowl of coleslaw, then having a delicious coleslaw dressing recipe is a must! This homemade dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for transforming a simple cabbage salad into something special. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a quick side dish for dinner, or just craving a tangy, refreshing salad, this coleslaw dressing recipe is the perfect addition.

Making your own coleslaw dressing from scratch isn’t as complicated as it might sound. With just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, you can whip up a batch of homemade dressing that tastes better than anything you’d find in a store.

Let’s dive into the recipe and break it down, along with some helpful tips to get it just right!

Ingredients for Coleslaw Dressing

For this creamy coleslaw dressing, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for the creamiest texture)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice for a fresher flavor)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (for a little tang)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (adjust to your preferred sweetness level)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon milk (or more if you like a thinner dressing)
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional, for extra flavor)

How to Make Coleslaw Dressing

Step 1: Mix the base ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. The base of your dressing is now ready.

Step 2: Adjust the consistency
Add the milk little by little, stirring constantly, until you reach your desired consistency. If you like a thicker dressing, use less milk; if you prefer it a bit runnier, feel free to add more. The consistency should be creamy but pourable.

Step 3: Add optional celery seeds
If you’re using celery seed, add it to the dressing and stir to incorporate. Celery seed adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the tanginess of the dressing. However, if you don’t have it, don’t worry – the dressing will still be delicious without it.

Step 4: Taste and adjust
Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add a little more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or extra salt if you like it savory. Once you’re happy with the flavor, your dressing is ready!

Step 5: Chill (optional)
For the best flavor, let your coleslaw dressing chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop even more.

Recipe Notes

• Mayonnaise Substitutes: If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise. This will reduce the fat but still maintain creaminess.
• Sweetness Level: The sugar amount can be adjusted to fit your personal preference. Some people like a sweeter dressing, while others prefer it more tangy.
• Vinegar Substitute: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice works just as well. Each will add its own unique flavor to the dressing.
• Spices: Feel free to get creative with the spices. A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can bring an extra depth of flavor, while a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper adds a little heat.

Time and Serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Serving Size: This recipe makes enough dressing for about 4-6 servings of coleslaw, depending on how much dressing you like.

Storage

This coleslaw dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge. If it’s too thick, simply add a little milk to loosen it up.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the type of mayonnaise and other ingredients you use.

Extra Tips for Perfect Coleslaw Dressing

• Consistency: If your dressing is too thick for your liking, thin it out by adding a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too runny, add more mayonnaise to thicken it up.
• Make Ahead: For the best results, make your dressing ahead of time and let it chill. The flavors really come together as it sits.
• For a Lighter Version: Use a low-fat mayonnaise or swap in Greek yogurt for a healthier twist on the classic dressing.
• Serving Ideas: This coleslaw dressing isn’t just for coleslaw! It also works great as a salad dressing or as a dip for fresh vegetables. You can even drizzle it on sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Coleslaw Dressing

• Traditional Coleslaw: Mix this dressing with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a bit of onion for the classic coleslaw. Serve it as a side dish at any BBQ, picnic, or family gathering.
• With Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork, or even burgers. The tangy creaminess pairs perfectly with smoky, savory flavors.
• On Sandwiches: This dressing is also a fantastic addition to sandwiches, especially pulled pork or chicken sandwiches.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Mixing Bowl: For whisking all the ingredients together.
• Whisk or Spoon: To combine the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurements of vinegar, sugar, and other ingredients.

FAQs About Coleslaw Dressing

Conclusion

With this simple and flavorful coleslaw dressing recipe, you’ll have a creamy, tangy dressing that enhances any salad. Whether you’re making a classic coleslaw or using it for other dishes, this homemade dressing is easy to make and perfect for adding that extra bit of flavor to your meals. Enjoy!