Indulge in the crunchy delight that is slaw, the perfect accompaniment to any meal! Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a light summer dish, there’s a slaw recipe here to suit your taste buds. Two primary options define the flavor profile: creamy and tangy. Building upon these foundations, a world of possibilities unfolds.
With my curated selection of top-notch recipes, you’ll be able to elevate your barbecue game, add zest to your tacos, and round out every dinner with a satisfying side dish.
KFC Coleslaw
The Colonel’s iconic creamy coleslaw recipe has a special place in the hearts of KFC enthusiasts. However, fans of the fast-food giant can now recreate this tangy treat from the comfort of their own homes, thanks to this straightforward recipe. The key to achieving that unmistakable flavor lies in the strategic use of buttermilk, which when combined with other ingredients, yields a creamy side dish ready in just 10 minutes.
Simple Healthy Slaw
Indulge in a vibrant and nutrient-dense slaw that’s as delicious as it is versatile! This colorful medley of vegetables is bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. What sets it apart is the delightful crunch from the added pepitas, which perfectly complements the zesty lemon dressing. The best part? It pairs beautifully with a wide range of proteins – think tacos, quinoa bowls, or even topped on a salmon burger.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, this slaw is sure to hit the spot.
Ramen Noodle Asian Salad
Transform your slaw into a satisfying standalone meal by combining it with the rich flavors of an umami salad. Start with the foundation of any great slaw: cabbage. To simplify the process, use pre-packaged coleslaw mix to save time and effort. The real game-changer in this recipe is the addition of crunchy, raw ramen noodles, which may seem like an unusual pairing at first but ultimately proves to be a winning combination.
Chick-fil-A Cole Slaw
Are you missing the nostalgic taste of Chick-fil-A’s discontinued slaw? Bring back those memories by creating your own version at home. With only five simple ingredients, you can replicate the recipe that left a lasting impression on many fans. The secret to achieving the perfect balance lies in allowing the mixture to sit and meld together for a couple of hours before serving.
Spicy Creamy Coleslaw
Indulge your spice craving with this mouth-watering slaw recipe, designed specifically for fiery food enthusiasts! The combination of creamy dressing and bold spices – including jalapenos, horseradish, a pinch of cayenne, and a generous tablespoon of chili powder – will tantalize your taste buds. For those who prefer a milder flavor, don’t worry – you can always adjust the heat level to suit your palate.
South Carolina Slaw
In the heart of Southern cuisine, this scrumptious slaw from South Carolina is a standout among its comfort food counterparts. Its bold flavors make it a hit among those who crave a tangy and refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw. By substituting apple cider vinegar for cream and adding a subtle touch of mustard, this recipe achieves a delightful balance of flavors. This pairing excels when paired with Southern barbecue that chooses a vinegar-based sauce over the classic tomato-based option.
Cabbage and Pea Salad
Imagine a vibrant spring salad that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful – meet the mean green slaw machine! This slaw-style delight is a perfect accompaniment to any springtime meal. The best part? It’s packed with seasonal superstars like crisp cucumbers, sweet peas, and pungent chives. To maintain the theme, choose a head of verdant green cabbage as the star of your show. Simply slice it thinly, using a mandolin if you have one at your disposal, to unlock its full potential.
Quick Veggie Slaw with Miso Sesame Dressing
The unique, savory flavor of miso is perfectly complemented by a refreshing slaw. This versatile recipe can be tailored to your liking, using any combination of crunchy vegetables you prefer. In this version, the classic pairing of cabbage and carrots delivers a tried-and-true result. For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating ginger into the mix.
This quick side dish is well-suited to accompany a variety of meals, including popular Korean BBQ options such as grilled pork belly and crispy chicken wings.
Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw
As the winter blues set in, I find myself craving recipes that inject some much-needed vitality into my meals. This vibrant side dish is just the thing: shredded Brussels sprouts tossed with tart cranberries and crunchy almonds, all tied together with a zesty apple cider vinegar dressing that’s sure to brighten up even the most lackluster day.
With its fresh flavors and satisfying crunch, this recipe will remain a delightful addition to your table for several days – just be aware that the Brussels sprouts themselves may gradually lose some of their texture as time passes.
Fried Cabbage and Bacon Slaw
Indulge in this delectable four-ingredient warm slaw recipe that’s perfect for any time of year, regardless of whether it’s holiday season or a casual summer gathering. The smoked bacon adds a savory twist, giving you permission to splurge and enjoy the guilt-free pleasure. This quick side dish is sure to draw in even the most dedicated bacon enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking for a tasty accompaniment to your favorite BBQ dishes or seeking a satisfying side for your holiday feast, this warm slaw recipe is sure to satisfy.
Bourbon-Bacon Slaw
Imagine the unexpected harmony of flavors when strips of crispy bacon and delicate red cabbage are bathed in a rich, creamy bourbon dressing. The subtle sweetness of the bourbon expertly balances the smoky savory notes from the bacon, resulting in an unmistakably unique slaw that will leave your friends eager to take another bite.
Grilled Coleslaw
Take your slaw to new heights by grilling it – yes, you read that right! To achieve the perfect char without burning, make sure to cut the vegetables into thick slices that won’t fall through the grill’s grates. Grill them until they develop a nice caramelization, but be careful not to overcook. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, combine all the grilled goodness together for a cohesive slaw experience.
Alternatively, serve each component separately, topped with your favorite creamy dressing and get ready to indulge in a flavor sensation.
Brussels Sprouts Slaw
If you’re a devoted fan of Brussels sprouts, you’re likely constantly seeking innovative ways to prepare them. One simple recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite is a harmonious blend of sweet and fresh flavors, featuring chewy Medjool dates, crunchy almonds, and nutty Parmesan. This delightful combination strikes the perfect balance, adding just enough depth without overpowering the star of the show – the tender Brussels sprouts.
To bring everything together, I enjoy massaging the shredded greens with a zesty dressing, ensuring each bite is thoroughly coated in flavor. A sprinkle of cracked pepper adds a satisfying finish to this delectable dish.
Creamy Broccoli Slaw
Looking to make the most of your broccoli? You’re in luck! This slaw recipe puts the versatile veggie at center stage, accompanied by a supporting cast of red cabbage, carrots, and crunchy almonds. By incorporating both stems and florets, you’ll not only enjoy a deliciously crunchy snack but also reduce kitchen waste.
And don’t worry about getting too carried away – this slaw is the perfect canvas for your favorite creamy coleslaw dressing, with poppyseed dressing making a particularly tasty addition.
Kohlrabi Slaw
Incorporating kohlrabi recipes into your cooking repertoire can be a delightful way to mix things up. This refreshing dish is an excellent starting point, as it harmoniously combines the clean, crunchy textures of matchstick kohlrabi and apple, perfectly balanced by a light apple cider vinegar-based dressing. To add depth without overpowering the other flavors, hazelnuts bring a satisfying nutty note; feel free to substitute with almonds if you prefer, and still achieve a delightful outcome.
Asian Coleslaw with Sesame Dressing
When it comes to Asian-inspired dishes, I’ve found that a refreshing cabbage slaw is an unbeatable match. Not only is it a healthy option, but its crunch also adds a delightful texture contrast to the rich flavors of many Asian staples. This particular recipe stands out for me because it not only elevates the humble cabbage, carrots, and cilantro with a tangy homemade dressing, but it also allows for a dash of umami flavor by incorporating soy sauce – if you desire that depth.
What I love most about this slaw is its versatility; feel free to mix things up by adding edamame, bell pepper, or even kohlrabi to create a customized flavor profile.
Japanese Coleslaw
Among the numerous easy Japanese side dishes that can be paired with your main course, one stands out for its exceptional versatility. The humble slaw mix is a great example, requiring only green onion, carrots, and cabbage. The four-ingredient dressing is equally straightforward. When I have plum sauce on hand, I like to substitute it for sugar, adding a sweet and sour dimension that elevates this simple slaw even further.
Fennel Slaw with Mint Vinaigrette
While fennel’s distinctive licorice flavor may not appeal to everyone, fans of the vegetable will find it shines in a refreshing springtime side dish. A light and zesty mint dressing complements its natural sweetness, making for a delightful combination. With prep time clocking in at just 10 minutes, you’ll have ample opportunity to let the flavors meld together before serving.
I enjoy pairing this with lean proteins like chicken or salmon, as well as homemade crab cakes for a satisfying seafood option.
Coleslaw Salad with Grilled Chicken
There’s something so satisfying about firing up the grill on a warm summer day, isn’t there? Not only does it mean I can enjoy deliciously charred chicken without heating up the house, but it also means I get to indulge in all sorts of tasty summer eats. And let me tell you, this coleslaw is right at the top of that list.
It’s a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements the savory flavors of grilled chicken, and its light and airy texture makes it feel like the perfect accompaniment to those long, lazy days spent soaking up the sun.
Korean Spicy Slaw
When hosting Korean barbecue gatherings, a refreshing and crunchy side dish is essential. One option that fits the bill is this vibrant slaw, which combines a medley of colorful vegetables with the bold flavors of gochujang sauce. To make things even easier, you can prepare it ahead of time, freeing up some of your pre-party prep to focus on other tasks.
Celery Slaw
Celery’s natural crunch provides the perfect foundation for a refreshing slaw. When paired with sweet raisins and savory bacon, this recipe strikes a delightful balance of flavors. For those who prefer a tangy slaw over creamy dressings, celery offers a great alternative to traditional cabbage, allowing you to achieve that vinegar-based flavor profile.
Sweet and Spicy Coleslaw
This crowd-pleasing recipe is an effortless addition to any gathering. Rather than dedicating time to meticulously slice cabbage, opt for a convenient store-bought coleslaw mix to simplify the process. The dressing requires only basic pantry staples, making it easy to whip up without breaking a sweat.
Summer Slaw
Summer picnics and barbecues are incomplete without a refreshing side of coleslaw. To make your gathering even more delightful, here’s a recipe for a creamy slaw that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. This variation stands out from others by incorporating the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the crunch of cucumbers, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Beet Carrot Apple Salad
As the seasons transition from summer to autumn, it’s time to update your salad game with a vibrant and flavorful seasonal twist. Ditch the traditional warm-weather slaws and opt for a stunning bowl filled with an assortment of autumnal delights. Thinly slice beets, carrots, and granny smith apples into matchstick-sized strips, then combine them in a harmonious union.
For an added layer of depth and richness, consider adding a creamy dressing or stick to the simplicity of a bright lemon vinaigrette.
Crunchy Winter Slaw
Winter’s chill can make it challenging to incorporate non-root vegetables into your diet. However, this recipe offers a delicious solution. By combining cruciferous powerhouses like broccoli and two varieties of cabbage, along with the sweetness of leftover apples from autumn, you’ll be well on your way to meeting your nutritional needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
