Coleslaw is one of those side dishes that makes every summer BBQ, picnic, or family gathering even better! I love how cool, crisp, and refreshing it is, especially on a hot day. This Creamy Coleslaw with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect balance of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and a rich, tangy dressing with just a touch of honey. It’s incredibly easy to make and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches.
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavor-packed coleslaw recipe, you’ve found it!
Method
Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preparing the vegetables for the coleslaw. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the white cabbage and red cabbage into fine shreds. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a mandoline slicer to achieve even, consistent slices. Once sliced, transfer both types of cabbage into a large mixing bowl.
Next, take a grater and shred the carrot into thin strands. You can also use a julienne peeler if you prefer slightly thicker carrot strips. Add the grated carrot to the bowl with the cabbage. Use a pair of salad tongs or a spatula to gently toss the vegetables together, ensuring they are well mixed. The combination of crisp cabbage and sweet carrot creates a balanced texture that makes this coleslaw so satisfying.
Make the Poppy Seed Dressing
Now it’s time to prepare the delicious poppy seed dressing that brings everything together. In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, white vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Using a whisk or spoon, stir the ingredients until they are fully blended, creating a smooth and creamy dressing. The vinegar provides a tangy contrast, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness, making the flavors pop. The poppy seeds not only enhance the taste but also add a subtle crunch to every bite.
Combine and Chill
With the dressing ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the poppy seed dressing over the cabbage and carrots, making sure to distribute it evenly. Using salad tongs or a spatula, toss everything together thoroughly until all the vegetables are well coated. This step ensures that each bite of coleslaw is full of creamy, flavorful goodness.
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and the cabbage to soften slightly while still keeping its delightful crunch. If you have extra time, letting it sit for 2 hours or more will result in even better flavor absorption. Before serving, give the coleslaw one final stir to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
Serve and Enjoy
Once properly chilled, your creamy coleslaw is ready to be served! Use a large serving spoon to dish it onto plates or as a topping for your favorite meals. It pairs wonderfully with BBQ dishes, sandwiches, and burgers, adding a refreshing crunch to every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or alongside grilled meats, this coleslaw will be a hit with everyone at the table!
Necessary Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Grater (for the carrot)
- Spatula or salad tongs
Creamy Coleslaw with Poppy Seed Dressing: A Summer BBQ Must-Have!
Cuisine: EuropeanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes1
hour1
hour10
minutesIngredients
Coleslaw:
3 cups sliced white cabbage
2 cups sliced red cabbage
1 shredded carrot
Poppy Seed Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp white vinegar
4 tsp honey
1 tbsp poppy seeds
1 tsp salt
3/4 tsp pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by thinly slicing the white and red cabbage using a sharp knife. If you prefer, you can use a mandoline slicer for even thinner slices. Transfer the sliced cabbage to a large mixing bowl. Next, grate the carrot using a grater or julienne it into thin strips. Add the shredded carrot to the bowl with the cabbage, and give it a light toss to combine.
- Make the Poppy Seed Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, white vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. The vinegar gives it a tangy kick, while the honey adds a hint of sweetness that balances everything perfectly.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the poppy seed dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Using a spatula or salad tongs, toss everything together until all the vegetables are well coated. Make sure every bite is dressed evenly!
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This step is essential because it allows the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly while still keeping its crunch. If you have time, letting it sit for 2 hours will make it even better! - Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, give the coleslaw a final stir, then serve it alongside your favorite BBQ dishes, sandwiches, or burgers. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness!
Notes
- Slice the cabbage thinly to ensure the coleslaw has the right texture. Thick pieces can be too tough to chew.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! This lets the flavors blend beautifully and makes the coleslaw taste even better.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey; if you prefer more tang, increase the vinegar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with BBQ favorites like grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork sandwiches.
- Great as a topping for fish tacos or burgers to add extra crunch.
- Serve as a side dish with fried chicken or sandwiches for a refreshing balance.
- Mix it into a wrap with grilled veggies and chicken for a quick, flavorful meal.
Fun Fact
Did you know that coleslaw dates back to ancient Rome? The word “coleslaw” comes from the Dutch word koolsla, which means “cabbage salad.” Over the years, it has been adapted into many variations, including creamy versions like this one!
Conclusion
This Creamy Coleslaw with Poppy Seed Dressing is a must have for any summer meal! It’s crunchy, tangy, slightly sweet, and so easy to make. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a fresh side dish, this coleslaw is always a hit.
