Quick and Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe with Apple Cider Vinegar

Coleslaw is a refreshing, crunchy, and creamy side dish that complements a wide range of meals, from barbecues to sandwiches. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next picnic, this Quick and Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect solution. Using fresh ingredients and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing made with apple cider vinegar, this healthy coleslaw is both delicious and nutritious.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best coleslaw recipe, including ingredient selection, preparation tips, variations, and storage advice. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe with apple cider vinegar and create a bowl of crunchy, creamy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Coleslaw Recipe

Quick to make – This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes!
Simple ingredients – You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Healthier than store-bought – No preservatives, and you can control the sugar and fat content.
Versatile – Works as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even tacos.
Made with apple cider vinegar – Adds a zesty tang and extra health benefits.

Ingredients for the Best Coleslaw Recipe

This creamy coleslaw recipe is made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Coleslaw:

4 cups shredded cabbage (a mix of green and red cabbage for color)
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
½ cup chopped parsley or cilantro (optional for freshness)
½ cup julienned apple (adds a touch of sweetness)

For the Coleslaw Dressing Recipe:

½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier version)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a slight kick)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for balanced sweetness)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon celery seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (keeps the apple from browning)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Shred the cabbage – You can use a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor to shred your cabbage into thin slices.
Grate the carrots – Use a box grater or a food processor to get evenly shredded carrots.
Slice the red onion – Thinly slice the red onion for a slight bite.
Cut the apple – Julienne or thinly slice the apple and toss it with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Make the Coleslaw Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, black pepper, and celery seeds.
Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Place the shredded cabbage, carrots, apple, and onion in a large bowl.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is well coated.
Let the coleslaw sit for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your quick coleslaw as a side dish with grilled chicken, pulled pork, burgers, or fish tacos.

Health Benefits of This Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

This healthy coleslaw is packed with vitamins, fiber, and gut-friendly ingredients. Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar – A Superfood Ingredient

Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick while aiding digestion and blood sugar regulation.
It contains beneficial probiotics that promote gut health.

2. Cabbage – A Nutrient Powerhouse

High in vitamins C and K, supporting immune health and bone strength.
Rich in fiber, which promotes digestion and satiety.

3. Carrots – Full of Antioxidants

Packed with beta-carotene, essential for eye health.
Contains powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation.

4. Greek Yogurt Alternative – A Healthy Swap

Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat and adds protein and probiotics.
Makes the coleslaw lighter and healthier while still being creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

This easy coleslaw recipe can be customized in many ways! Here are some ideas:

1. Dairy-Free and Vegan Coleslaw

Swap mayonnaise with vegan mayo or use a mix of olive oil and tahini for a creamy dressing.
Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

2. Low-Carb and Keto Coleslaw

Reduce or omit the honey/maple syrup to lower the sugar content.
Use full-fat mayo and more apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.

3. Spicy Coleslaw

Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Toss in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy crunch.

4. Asian-Inspired Coleslaw

Replace Dijon mustard with soy sauce or tamari.
Add a touch of sesame oil and chopped peanuts for an Asian twist.

How to Store Coleslaw

To keep your coleslaw fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make ahead: If prepping in advance, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
Avoid freezing: Coleslaw does not freeze well as cabbage releases water when thawed.

Pairing Ideas – What to Serve with Coleslaw

This creamy coleslaw recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

With Grilled Meats:

BBQ Chicken
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Grilled Salmon

With Tacos and Wraps:

Fish Tacos
Shrimp Tacos
Chicken Wraps

With Classic Comfort Foods:

Burgers and Hot Dogs
Sloppy Joes
Fried Chicken

With Healthy Meals:

Buddha Bowls
Quinoa and Chickpea Salad
Grilled Veggies

Healthy Eating Books to Learn More

If you’re interested in healthy coleslaw and other nutritious recipes, consider these healthy eating books:

“The Whole30: The 30-Day Guide to Total Health and Food Freedom” by Melissa Hartwig
“Eat to Live” by Dr. Joel Fuhrman
“The Blue Zones Kitchen: 100 Recipes to Live to 100” by Dan Buettner
“How Not to Die” by Dr. Michael Greger
“The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook” by Toby Amidor

Final Thoughts on This Quick Coleslaw Recipe

This quick and easy creamy coleslaw recipe is the ultimate side dish—fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue or just need a simple side for dinner, this recipe with apple cider vinegar is guaranteed to impress.

Try it today and enjoy a healthy coleslaw that’s both delicious and nutritious. Let me know in the comments how you like to customize your coleslaw dressing recipe! 🍽️🥗