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Delicious bowl of Sweet Creamy Southern Cole Slaw with vibrant colors and creamy texture.

Sweet Creamy Southern Cole Slaw

A classic Southern coleslaw that offers a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it the perfect side dish for any backyard cookout.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8 servings
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

Vegetables

  • 1/2 head half of a head of cabbage, finely chopped Use fresh, crisp cabbage. Napa or green cabbage both work well.
  • 1 bag 1 (3 oz.) bag sweet baby carrots, finely shredded Ensure they blend into the slaw rather than stand out.
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup mild sweet red onion, finely chopped Ensure that the onion doesn't overpower the slaw.

Dressing

  • 1 cup 1 cup heavy mayo such as Duke's or Hellmann's Choose based on how bold you want the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup Miracle Whip salad dressing Essential for the sweet-and-tangy flavor.
  • 2 tbl 2 Tbl. sugar Adjust according to desired sweetness.
  • 2 tbl 2 Tbl. sweet pickle juice Preferably homemade.
  • 1 tbl 1 Tbl. apple cider vinegar Adds a tangy component.
  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp. celery seeds Provides a subtle celery flavor.
  • 1/16 tsp 1/16 tsp. celery salt Contributes savory notes.
  • 1/16 tsp 1/16 tsp. coarse ground black pepper For a slight kick.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, Miracle Whip, sugar, sweet pickle juice, apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, celery salt, and black pepper until creamy. Taste and adjust to your preference.
  • Cover and chill the dressing while you prepare the vegetables.

Shredding Vegetables

  • Cut wedges from the cabbage and shred them using a food processor or a sharp knife to achieve a very thin slice.
  • Shred the baby carrots in the food processor or grate them finely by hand.

Combining Ingredients

  • Finely dice the onion and add it to a large bowl along with the cabbage and shredded carrots.
  • Toss the vegetables gently to combine.

Dressing the Slaw

  • Pour the chilled dressing over the vegetable mixture and fold until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serving

  • Stir or fold the slaw gently before serving to redistribute the dressing, and adjust flavor if necessary.

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Slaw tastes better after resting as the flavors meld.
Keyword Coleslaw, creamy slaw, Southern slaw