Print

Creamy Classic Coleslaw Recipe with Easy Tangy Poppyseed Dressing

creamy classic coleslaw - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and fresh creamy classic coleslaw with a tangy poppyseed dressing that balances sweetness and crunch, perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, grated
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1½ teaspoons poppy seeds
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons buttermilk or whole milk (optional, for thinner dressing)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cabbage thoroughly and pat dry. Remove any tough outer leaves. Slice the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or mandoline until you have about 6 cups.
  2. Grate the carrots with a box grater or food processor. Thinly slice the red onion, if using, and chop fresh parsley. Set all aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a smaller bowl or mason jar, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1½ teaspoons poppy seeds. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
  4. If you want a thinner consistency, add 1-2 tablespoons of buttermilk or whole milk and mix again.
  5. Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. Be gentle so the cabbage keeps its crunch and doesn’t get bruised or soggy.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the slaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  7. Before serving, give the coleslaw one last stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of honey if desired. If the dressing thickened too much in the fridge, stir in a splash of milk or vinegar to loosen it.

Notes

Use firm, fresh green cabbage for best texture. For a colorful twist, substitute half the green cabbage with purple cabbage. For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or dairy-free mayo. To keep coleslaw crisp, toss dressing just before serving and avoid overdressing. Can be made up to 24 hours ahead if stored separately and combined before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, poppyseed dressing, BBQ side dish, easy coleslaw, tangy dressing, classic coleslaw

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/creamy-classic-coleslaw-recipe-with-easy-tangy-poppyseed-dressing/