Creamy Cole Slaw Recipe with Mayo: A Timeless Side Dish
Cole slaw, a classic side dish with roots tracing back to the Dutch, has been a staple at picnics, barbecues, and summer gatherings for generations. This creamy cole slaw recipe with mayo is a twist on the traditional recipe, offering a perfect balance of crispness and creaminess that complements a wide range of dishes.
Ingredients: Simple and Versatile
This recipe uses a combination of simple, readily available ingredients that allow the natural flavors of the cabbage and carrots to shine through. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 small head of green cabbage
- 2 medium carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Choosing the Right Cabbage
For this recipe, a small head of green cabbage works best. Its crunch and mild flavor provide the perfect base for the creamy dressing. You can also use a combination of green and red cabbage for added color and a slightly sweeter flavor.

Preparation: Step-by-Step
Preparing this cole slaw recipe is a breeze. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:
Shredding the Cabbage and Carrots
Start by removing any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Quarter the cabbage and remove the core. Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline, then transfer it to a large bowl. Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or the grater attachment on your food processor. Add the grated carrots to the bowl with the cabbage.
Making the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, celery seeds (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Combining the Slaw and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Chilling and Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cole slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step also helps to soften the cabbage slightly, enhancing its texture. When ready to serve, give the cole slaw a quick toss and transfer it to a serving dish.
Nutritional Information
This creamy cole slaw recipe with mayo is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 8 servings per batch):
| Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrate | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 170 | 14g | 2.5g | 10mg | 220mg | 10g | 3g | 6g | 1g |
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This cole slaw recipe can be made up to one day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the softer the cabbage will become, so keep that in mind when planning your meal. Enjoy!