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Creamy Classic Coleslaw Recipe with Easy Buttermilk Dressing

creamy classic coleslaw with buttermilk dressing - featured image

A quick and easy creamy classic coleslaw featuring a tangy buttermilk dressing that balances fresh shredded cabbage and carrots for a satisfying crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 340g)
  • 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded (about 170g)
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and shredded (about 120g)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ cup buttermilk (120ml)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (60ml), full-fat
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp celery seed (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cabbages and carrots. Remove outer cabbage leaves if wilted.
  2. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips about ¼ inch wide.
  3. Peel and shred carrots finely. Thinly slice the green onions if using.
  4. Place all veggies into a large mixing bowl.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), and celery seed until smooth.
  6. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. If the dressing is too thick, add a splash more buttermilk.
  7. Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies.
  8. Using tongs or two large spoons, toss everything gently but thoroughly until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
  9. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and cabbage to soften slightly.
  10. Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick stir and taste. Adjust salt or vinegar if desired.

Notes

If cabbage feels dry after shredding, sprinkle a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes before draining excess liquid to prevent watery slaw. For dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk mixed with 1 tsp lemon juice and use vegan mayo. Let coleslaw chill at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Avoid overdressing to keep crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, buttermilk dressing, classic coleslaw, easy coleslaw, BBQ side dish, picnic recipe