If you’re craving a cool, tangy, and crunchy side dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything, this Ice Box Coleslaw is the answer. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes even better the longer it sits, which means you can make it ahead and let all those delicious flavors meld together. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, this coleslaw will be the star of your next picnic or family dinner. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
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Why You’ll Love Ice Box Coleslaw
This is more than just your average coleslaw. Here’s why this version will quickly become a favorite:
Make-Ahead Magic: It’s the kind of dish you can prepare ahead of time and let sit in the fridge. The longer it chills, the more flavorful it gets. Perfect for meal prepping or bringing to a potluck.
Crunchy & Creamy: The crisp vegetables combined with the creamy dressing make every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s refreshing and light—just the right balance to cut through richer, heavier dishes.
Versatile: It pairs with so many different meals. Whether you’re serving it with fried chicken, BBQ, or even burgers, it’s a side dish that never disappoints.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients needed here—just the basics for a coleslaw that tastes fantastic.
Crowd-Pleasing: This coleslaw is always a hit. It’s the kind of dish people go back for seconds (or thirds!) and always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
This simple, no-fuss coleslaw comes together with just a few basic ingredients:
Shredded Cabbage: The main base of the slaw. Fresh, crunchy, and a perfect backdrop for the creamy dressing.
Carrots: Add a burst of color and sweetness that balances the tanginess of the dressing.
Onion: A little bit of onion gives it some savory bite, without overwhelming the other flavors.
Sugar: Just a touch of sugar helps mellow out the tang from the vinegar and balances the overall taste.
Vinegar: Adds that signature tang to the dressing. It’s what gives the slaw its refreshing kick.
Mayonnaise: The creamy element that makes the slaw so smooth and luscious.
Salt and Pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors. Don’t forget to taste as you go!
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to make this simple and tasty slaw? Let’s dive in!
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion. Give everything a good mix to ensure the veggies are evenly distributed.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for extra tang.
Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies and toss until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the dressing reaches all the veggies for that perfect creamy bite.
Chill the Slaw: Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours, preferably overnight. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will blend.
Serve & Enjoy: After it’s had time to chill, give it a final toss and serve. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this slaw is always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Ice Box Coleslaw
This cool, creamy coleslaw is the perfect complement to just about any meal. Here are a few ways to serve it:
With BBQ: Ice Box Coleslaw is a classic pairing with BBQ. Whether it’s pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken, it’s the perfect side to balance out the smoky, savory flavors.
Fried Foods: Serve it with fried chicken, fish, or shrimp. The crunch and freshness of the slaw pairs perfectly with crispy fried foods.
Sandwiches & Burgers: Pile some of this coleslaw onto a burger or sandwich for a crunchy, creamy, and refreshing addition.
On Its Own: Sometimes, this slaw is so good, you don’t even need anything else to go with it. Enjoy it as a light snack or a healthy side.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to make this Ice Box Coleslaw even better:
Add Some Heat: If you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Use Red Cabbage: For a pop of color, feel free to use red cabbage in place of, or in addition to, the green cabbage. It adds a beautiful hue and extra crunch.
Make It Creamier: If you prefer a thicker, creamier slaw, you can add a little more mayo or even a spoonful of sour cream.
Storage Tips: This coleslaw lasts for 3-4 days in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Double the Recipe: This recipe is great for a crowd, so if you’re feeding a large group, feel free to double or triple the ingredients.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this coleslaw without mayonnaise?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a vinaigrette if you prefer a tangier, lighter slaw.
Q2: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A2: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-shredded cabbage works just fine.
Q3: How long should I chill the coleslaw?
A3: For best results, chill it for at least 1-2 hours. But overnight is even better—the flavors really develop and meld together.
Q4: Can I add other veggies to this slaw?
A4: Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, celery, or even a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and crunch.
Q5: Can I make this ahead of time?
A5: Definitely! This is a perfect make-ahead recipe. The flavors only get better as it sits, so you can prepare it a day or two in advance.
Q6: Can I freeze the coleslaw?
A6: While the coleslaw can technically be frozen, the texture of the cabbage will change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after being chilled in the fridge.
Q7: How do I know if the coleslaw is seasoned properly?
A7: Taste it! If it needs more sweetness, add a little more sugar. If it needs more tang, add more vinegar. Seasoning to your preference is key!
Q8: Can I make this coleslaw spicier?
A8: Yes! Add a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for some heat.
Q9: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A9: Yes, you can! Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage would work well in this recipe too.
Q10: What’s the best way to serve this coleslaw?
A10: Serve it chilled for maximum crunch! It’s great as a side dish with grilled meats, fried chicken, or even as a topping for tacos.
Conclusion
Ice Box Coleslaw is the perfect addition to any meal—refreshing, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and always a hit with everyone. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, with fried chicken, or as a picnic side, this coleslaw is sure to be the star of the show. Enjoy!
Print
Ice Box Coleslaw
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This old-fashioned ice box slaw is refreshing, easy to make, and keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or summer gatherings
Ingredients
- 1/2 of a large head of cabbage (or 1 small head), chopped or grated
- 1 small purple onion, chopped (can use regular onion)
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/3 cup oil
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, onion, green pepper, carrot, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare Dressing: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, vinegar, oil, and dry mustard. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Toss Slaw: Once the dressing has cooled, pour it over the slaw mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill: Refrigerate the coleslaw for several hours or overnight.
- Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- This coleslaw can be made ahead and will last up to a week in the refrigerator.
- For a milder flavor, you can substitute regular onion for purple onion.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg