Vinegar Coleslaw (No Mayo)
Table of Contents
There’s something magical about a simple recipe that can transport you back to the sunny days of childhood picnics and family gatherings. Vinegar Coleslaw, without a hint of mayo, does just that for me. It reminds me of those leisurely summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s backyard, where the adults would gather around the grill, and we, the children, would run around, barefoot and carefree. This coleslaw was always there, a crunchy, tangy, refreshing companion to the smoky, savory flavors of grilled meats. Its crisp texture and vibrant flavors were like a burst of sunshine on our plates, making every meal feel special and complete.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that comes together in no time, perfect for those spontaneous picnics or unexpected guests. With just a few ingredients, it offers a symphony of flavors — the tang of the apple cider vinegar, the subtle sweetness of honey, and the gentle warmth of celery seed. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional mayo-based coleslaw, lighter and brighter, letting the natural flavors of the fresh vegetables shine. Plus, it’s a healthier option, leaving you feeling satisfied without the heaviness.
There’s something so comforting about knowing you can create something delicious with what’s already in your pantry. This coleslaw recipe is a testament to that, embodying the spirit of Easy Peasy Recipes — accessible, family-friendly, and full of heart. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to savor the joy of homemade goodness.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
This Vinegar Coleslaw brings a refreshing twist to traditional side dishes, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
Healthier Alternative: With no mayo, this coleslaw is lighter and lower in calories, perfect for those mindful of their diet. It’s also well-suited for those with specific dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance or egg allergies, offering a creamy alternative without the use of dairy or eggs.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The minimal preparation time means you can focus on enjoying your event rather than being tied up in the kitchen.
Vibrant Flavor: The tangy dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The sharpness of the apple cider vinegar combined with the mild sweetness of honey makes every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Pairing: Complements a variety of dishes, from barbecued meats to sandwiches, adding a refreshing crunch. Its versatility means it can easily be adapted with additional ingredients such as bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and color.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a staple for family meals and celebrations. The simple, fresh ingredients appeal to all ages, encouraging everyone to enjoy their vegetables in a fun and tasty way.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful coleslaw, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals:
Cutting Board: Essential for safely slicing and dicing the vegetables. A sturdy, non-slip cutting board ensures that your prep work is not only easy but also safe.
Sharp Knife: For finely shredding the cabbage and slicing the onions with ease. A well-sharpened knife makes all the difference in achieving consistent, thin slices that allow the dressing to fully penetrate each piece.
Grater: To effortlessly grate the carrot, adding texture and color. A box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment can save time and effort.
Large Bowl: Perfect for mixing all the ingredients together without any spills. A wide, roomy bowl ensures you have enough space to toss everything evenly.
Whisk: For blending the dressing until smooth and well-combined. A small, handheld whisk enables you to emulsify the dressing, ensuring a uniform coating on the vegetables.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 1 head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1/2 yellow or red onion, finely sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey, (or more, depending on sweetness)
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp celery seed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Add the shredded green cabbage, carrot, and onion to a large bowl. This step can be done ahead of time if you’re preparing for a party, as the vegetables can be kept in the fridge until you’re ready to dress them.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, celery seed, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Taste the dressing and decide if you’d like to add more honey. The balance of acidity and sweetness can be adjusted according to your personal preference.
Add about half of the dressing to the cabbage, onions, and carrots and gently toss. Slowly add more dressing until you’ve reached your desired consistency. The key is to ensure that the vegetables are well-coated but not overly saturated.
Serve and enjoy! For an enhanced presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 0 minutes • Total Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 120 • Servings: 6
Note: For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. This addition can give the coleslaw an unexpected kick that pairs wonderfully with the tangy elements.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Vinegar Coleslaw not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
Cabbage: Rich in vitamins C and K, cabbage supports immune health and bone strength. It also contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.
Carrot: Packed with beta-carotene, carrots promote good vision and overall eye health. They also add a natural sweetness that complements the acidic dressing beautifully.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Known for its potential to aid digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. It adds a robust tangy flavor that ties the coleslaw together.
Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats, olive oil contributes to heart health and adds a smooth richness to the dressing. Its mild flavor blends well with the vinegar without overpowering the dish.
Honey: Offers natural sweetness while providing antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. It helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar, making the dressing smooth and palatable.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This coleslaw is a versatile companion to various dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:
Grilled Chicken: Adds a refreshing crunch to the savory flavors of grilled meats. The acidity of the coleslaw can enhance the smokiness of the grill.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Balances the richness with its tangy, crisp texture. The coleslaw can be used as a topping to add a delightful contrast to the soft, tender meat.
Fish Tacos: Complements the light, fresh flavors of fish with its vibrant dressing. The coleslaw adds texture and a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Barbecue Ribs: Cuts through the heaviness of ribs with a zesty, light contrast. The acidity helps to cleanse the palate, making each bite of ribs feel as satisfying as the first.
Picnic Spread: A staple side dish that pairs seamlessly with other picnic favorites like potato salad and baked beans. It holds up well, even in warm weather, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To keep your coleslaw fresh and crisp, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. Enjoy leftovers as a topping for sandwiches or as a side to a simple grilled cheese. You can also transform it into a main dish by adding cooked chicken or chickpeas for protein, creating a satisfying salad perfect for lunch or dinner.
If you find the coleslaw has become too watery after a day or two, simply drain off any excess liquid and toss it with a bit more vinegar and olive oil to refresh the flavors. For an adventurous twist, consider adding a handful of raisins or nuts for added sweetness and crunch, turning leftovers into a completely new dish.
There’s a certain joy in crafting a meal that speaks to our hearts while nourishing our bodies. This Vinegar Coleslaw, with its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, captures the essence of home cooking — where every bite is a warm reminder of cherished memories and the comforting embrace of family gatherings. I hope this recipe finds a special place in your heart, just as it has in mine, bringing a taste of nostalgia to your table, one delightful crunch at a time.
Pin this Easy Peasy recipe!
Love this recipe? Pin the image below to your favorite Pinterest boards and bring a little Easy Peasy comfort to your kitchen whenever you need it.
Vinegar Coleslaw (No Mayo)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the shredded green cabbage, carrot and onion to a large bowl.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, celery seed, salt and pepper to create the dressing. Taste the dressing and decide if you’d like to add more honey.
- Add about half of the dressing to the cabbage, onions and carrots and gently toss. Slowly add more dressing until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
- Serve and enjoy!
