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Fresh Tangy Southern Coleslaw Without Mayo

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A light, refreshing, and perfectly tangy southern coleslaw made without mayonnaise, featuring a vinegar-based dressing that keeps it crisp and lively.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and shredded
  • ½ small white onion, finely minced
  • ½ cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional but recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or light vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables (10 minutes): Rinse the cabbage thoroughly and dry it well. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred the cabbage into fine, thin strips. Peel and shred the carrots, then mince the onion finely. Place all three in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing (5 minutes): In a separate small bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seed. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing slightly. Add lemon juice if using.
  3. Toss the slaw (3 minutes): Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything gently but thoroughly until all the vegetables are coated evenly. The slaw should glisten with the dressing but not be soggy.
  4. Let it rest (at least 30 minutes): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the cabbage soften just a touch while still keeping crispness.
  5. Final taste test and adjustments: Before serving, taste your slaw. Add a pinch more salt, sugar, or vinegar if you want it a bit tangier or sweeter. Give it one last gentle toss, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Dry the cabbage thoroughly to avoid soggy slaw. Whisk oil in slowly to emulsify the dressing. Let the slaw rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for heat, fresh herbs for brightness, or diced fruit for sweetness.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, southern coleslaw, no mayo coleslaw, vinegar coleslaw, tangy coleslaw, fresh coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, summer side dish

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/fresh-tangy-southern-coleslaw-without-mayo-recipe-easy-homemade-coleslaw-ideas/