Creamy Coleslaw

Creamy Coleslaw is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 327 calories per serving. Recipe by Simply Mamá Cooks on YouTube.

Prep: 22 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 32 min

Cost: $4.97 total, $0.83 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.25 pounds Green Cabbage (Thinly sliced then chopped into bite‑size pieces)
  • 1 medium Carrot (Shredded)
  • 0.25 medium Raw Onion (Grated; enough to yield 1 teaspoon for the dressing)
  • 0.75 cup Mayonnaise (Good quality, full‑fat)
  • 0.5 cup Milk (Whole or 2% milk)
  • 0.5 cup Buttermilk (Plain buttermilk)
  • 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Adjust for sweetness)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional, for extra onion flavor)
  • 1.5 teaspoons Salt (To taste; can adjust)
  • to taste Black Pepper (Freshly ground preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage

    Thinly slice 1‑1.5 lb of green cabbage, then give it a quick chop so the pieces are bite‑size.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Shred the Carrot

    Peel one medium carrot and shred it using the grater’s medium holes.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Grate the Onion

    Grate a raw onion until you have roughly one teaspoon of grated onion for the dressing.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Make the Dressing

    In a 1‑cup measuring cup combine 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 cup buttermilk. Add 3 Tbsp sugar, the grated onion, 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional), 1.5 tsp salt, pepper to taste, and 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine Vegetables and Dressing

    Place the sliced cabbage and shredded carrot in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss with a rubber spatula until everything is evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Chill (Optional but Recommended)

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (up to 24 hours) to let the flavors meld.

    Time: PT0M

    Temperature: 4°C

Nutrition Facts

Calories
327
Protein
3 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Eggs, Milk

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Creamy Coleslaw

Recipe by Simply Mamá Cooks

A classic, creamy coleslaw made with fresh cabbage, carrot, and a tangy mayo‑buttermilk dressing. Best prepared 12‑24 hours ahead so the flavors meld perfectly. Perfect as a side for fried fish or any summer barbecue.

EasyAmericanServes 6

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Source Video
22m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
32m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.97
Total cost
$0.83
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Thinly slicing the cabbage ensures a tender bite and proper absorption of the dressing.
  • Whisking the dressing until smooth prevents lumps and guarantees even coating.
  • Tossing the vegetables just enough to coat without crushing them.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife and keep fingertips curled back to avoid cuts.
  • Wash hands and all surfaces after handling raw onion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of creamy coleslaw in American cuisine?

A

Coleslaw originated from Dutch settlers who mixed shredded cabbage with vinegar. In the United States it evolved into a creamy, mayo‑based side that became a staple at picnics, barbecues, and Southern fish‑fry meals.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of coleslaw in the United States?

A

In the South, coleslaw is often made with a rich mayo‑buttermilk base and a hint of lemon. In the Midwest, a sweeter version with sugar and sometimes apple cider vinegar is common. The Pacific Northwest favors a lighter vinaigrette style.

cultural
Q

How is coleslaw traditionally served with fried fish in Southern cuisine?

A

In Southern cuisine, creamy coleslaw is served chilled alongside fried fish or shrimp, providing a cool, tangy contrast to the hot, crispy batter. It is usually placed on the same plate or in a separate side dish.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is creamy coleslaw traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Coleslaw is a classic side for Fourth of July barbecues, family picnics, Thanksgiving leftovers, and seafood boils. Its refreshing crunch makes it a popular accompaniment to many festive meals.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with this creamy coleslaw?

A

It pairs beautifully with fried chicken, grilled burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, shrimp po’boys, and any fried fish or seafood platter.

cultural
Q

What makes this creamy coleslaw special or unique in American side‑dish cuisine?

A

The combination of mayonnaise, milk, and buttermilk creates a silky texture while the lemon juice adds brightness. Grating a small amount of raw onion into the dressing gives a subtle onion flavor without overwhelming the palate.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy coleslaw?

A

Common mistakes include over‑mixing, which can bruise the cabbage; using too much dressing, leading to sogginess; and not allowing the slaw to chill, which prevents the flavors from melding.

technical
Q

Why does this coleslaw recipe use both milk and buttermilk in the dressing instead of just one dairy product?

A

Milk adds richness while buttermilk contributes a gentle tang and helps thin the dressing to the perfect coating consistency. Together they create a balanced flavor profile that’s smoother than using either alone.

technical
Q

Can I make this creamy coleslaw ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, prepare the dressing a day ahead and keep it sealed in the refrigerator. Combine the vegetables and dressing just before serving, or store the mixed slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days, stirring once before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks specializes in approachable, family‑friendly Latin‑inspired and American comfort food recipes, often focusing on quick meals that can be prepared ahead of time.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks' approach to American side‑dish cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Simply Mamá Cooks emphasizes using everyday pantry staples, offering clear step‑by‑step visuals, and often includes cultural anecdotes that connect traditional dishes to modern home cooking, setting it apart from more technique‑heavy channels.

channel

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