This easy coleslaw recipe is a perfect, fresh side dish to serve alongside anything you’re grilling this summer. It’s light and healthy, with a simple dressing that complements the crispness of the cabbage. This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and more, offering a balanced crunch and tangy flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded

• 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded

• 2 large carrots, shredded

• ½ cup low-fat mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and shredded carrots.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.

4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Nutrients

While the exact nutritional breakdown is not provided, coleslaw generally has the following benefits:

• Calories: Approx. 100-150 kcal per serving

• Carbohydrates: 10-15 g

• Protein: 1-2 g

• Fat: 6-10 g (depending on the amount of mayonnaise used)

• Fiber: 3-5 g

Why Choose This Easy Coleslaw Recipe?

This coleslaw is the epitome of a fresh, easy-to-make side dish. It offers a crisp texture from the cabbage and carrots, with a tangy, creamy dressing that doesn’t overwhelm the natural flavors of the vegetables. By using low-fat mayonnaise and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, the recipe keeps things light and healthy, offering a satisfying dish without being too rich.

It’s also an incredibly versatile dish—whether you’re serving it alongside burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or even grilled vegetables, it’s sure to add a refreshing crunch that balances out heartier dishes. The beauty of coleslaw lies in its simplicity: it’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and can be made ahead of time to let the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Benefits of Coleslaw

This coleslaw provides several key nutrients while remaining light and flavorful:

• Low in Calories: With approximately 100-150 calories per serving, this coleslaw is a great option for those looking to enjoy a healthy side dish without adding excessive calories to their meal.

• Carbohydrates: With 10-15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish provides a good source of energy, mostly from the cabbage and carrots.

• Protein: The coleslaw offers a modest amount of protein (1-2 grams per serving), which comes from the cabbage and the dressing ingredients. While it’s not a high-protein dish, it complements protein-rich meals like grilled meats perfectly.

• Healthy Fats: The mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in the dressing contribute about 6-10 grams of fat per serving, most of which come from the healthy fats in the mayonnaise. This adds creaminess to the dish without going overboard on calories.

• Fiber: With 3-5 grams of fiber per serving, this coleslaw helps support digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness. The fiber comes mainly from the cabbage and carrots, which are both rich in nutrients and fiber.

In addition to the macronutrients, this coleslaw also offers important vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A from the carrots, which is essential for vision and skin health.

• Vitamin C from the cabbage and carrots, which supports immune function and promotes healthy skin.

• Calcium and Iron for bone health and overall metabolic function.

How to Make Easy Coleslaw

Making this easy coleslaw is a breeze. Here’s how you can prepare it:

1. Shred the Vegetables:

   • Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots. A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife will do the job, but a food processor can also make quick work of the shredding process. Combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots in a large bowl.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the low-fat mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. The Dijon mustard adds a slight tang, while the honey or maple syrup offers a natural sweetness that balances out the acidity of the vinegar.

3. Combine:

   • Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. Be sure to mix it gently to avoid breaking down the cabbage too much.

4. Chill:

   • For the best flavor, refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a more harmonious taste. If you have time, it’s even better to let it chill for a few hours.

5. Serve:

   • Once the coleslaw is chilled and ready, give it a quick stir and serve at room temperature or straight from the fridge. Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite summer meals!

Customization Ideas

This coleslaw is very adaptable, so feel free to make it your own. Here are some ideas to customize the recipe:

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables to the mix, like sliced bell peppers, celery, or even shredded apples for extra crunch and flavor.

• Swap the Sweetener: If you prefer a less sweet coleslaw, you can reduce or omit the honey or maple syrup, or substitute it with a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie option.

• Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

• Vegan Option: To make this coleslaw vegan, simply use a plant-based mayonnaise (such as one made from avocado or soy) instead of regular mayo.

Serving Suggestions

This easy coleslaw pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it an excellent side dish for almost any occasion:

• Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. The crunchiness of the coleslaw complements the richness of grilled meats.

• Sandwiches & Wraps: It’s a great topping for sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos. Add it to a pulled pork sandwich or a veggie wrap for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

• BBQ: Coleslaw is a classic accompaniment to BBQ meals, adding a refreshing contrast to smoky and savory flavors.

• Picnics & Potlucks: This coleslaw is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or outdoor gatherings. It’s easy to make in advance and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion: A Light, Flavorful Summer Side Dish

This easy coleslaw recipe is a perfect addition to your summer meals, offering a light and healthy option that complements everything from grilled meats to sandwiches and BBQs. With its vibrant colors, crisp texture, and tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing side that will brighten up any meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, and its versatility makes it a great choice for meal prepping or for last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a delicious side dish, this coleslaw is sure to hit the spot!