Easy Homemade Coleslaw

Easy Homemade Coleslaw is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by ItsMeKellz on YouTube.

Prep: 16 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 26 min

Cost: $4.63 total, $0.77 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 head Cabbage (core removed, shredded very thin)
  • 1 small Red Onion (peeled and finely chopped)
  • 2 medium Carrots (peeled and shredded)
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise (full‑fat, room temperature (Blue Plate brand preferred))
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (unfiltered)
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Shred the Cabbage

    Remove the core from the cabbage head and shred the leaves very thin using a box grater or food processor.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Chop the Red Onion

    Peel the red onion and finely chop it.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Shred the Carrots

    Peel the carrots and shred them using the same grater or a micro‑plane.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Combine Vegetables

    Place the shredded cabbage, chopped onion, and shredded carrots together in the large mixing bowl.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Make the Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Toss the Slaw with Dressing

    Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Chill

    Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to several hours) to let the flavors meld.

    Time: PT0M

  8. Final Toss and Serve

    Give the coleslaw a quick toss before serving, taste and add extra salt or sugar if needed.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
1g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
10g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑free, Contains eggs

Allergens: Eggs (mayonnaise)

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Easy Homemade Coleslaw

Recipe by ItsMeKellz

A simple, classic coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, red onion, carrots, and a creamy mayo‑vinegar dressing. Perfect as a side for fish, hush puppies, or any Southern‑style meal.

EasyAmericanServes 6

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Source Video
16m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
26m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.63
Total cost
$0.77
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Shredding the cabbage very thin
  • Preparing the mayonnaise‑vinegar dressing
  • Ensuring the dressing is fully incorporated into the vegetables
  • Refrigerating the slaw to allow flavors to meld

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully to avoid cuts.
  • Mayonnaise is perishable; keep the slaw refrigerated.
  • Do not let the coleslaw sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

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

A

Coleslaw originated from European cabbage salads and became a staple in the Southern United States, especially as a cool, crunchy side for fried foods like fish and hush puppies. It reflects the region’s love for simple, tangy accompaniments that balance rich, fried dishes.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of coleslaw in Southern cuisine?

A

In the South, coleslaw often uses a mayonnaise‑based dressing with apple cider vinegar, while other regions may favor a mustard‑based or vinegar‑only “slaw”. Some Southern versions add celery seed, a touch of sugar, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.

cultural
Q

How is coleslaw traditionally served in Southern meals?

A

Coleslaw is typically served chilled as a side dish alongside fried fish, shrimp, barbecue, or hot dogs. It is placed on the plate or in a separate bowl, allowing diners to scoop a generous helping with each bite of the main protein.

cultural
Q

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

A

Coleslaw appears at family barbecues, picnics, fish fries, and holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving or Fourth of July cookouts. Its refreshing crunch makes it a popular complement to heavy, fried, or grilled fare.

cultural
Q

What makes this coleslaw recipe special or unique in Southern cuisine?

A

This recipe uses a thinly shredded cabbage texture that mimics the traditional “Mama’s” style described by the creator, and it incorporates Blue Plate mayonnaise for a rich, authentic flavor profile that many Southern cooks swear by.

cultural
Q

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

A

Common errors include over‑shredding the cabbage so it releases too much water, using cold mayo that clumps, and not allowing enough chilling time for the flavors to meld. Follow the shredding technique and chill for at least an hour for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this coleslaw recipe use mayonnaise instead of a vinegar‑only dressing?

A

Mayonnaise provides a creamy body that balances the acidity of the apple cider vinegar and the sweetness of the sugar, creating the classic Southern texture and flavor that a simple vinaigrette cannot achieve.

technical
Q

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

A

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and shredded vegetables up to two days in advance. Store the dressing in a sealed container in the refrigerator, keep the shredded veggies dry in separate containers, and combine them just before serving. Keep the finished slaw refrigerated and consume within three days.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making this coleslaw?

A

The cabbage should be thinly shredded and still crisp, the carrots bright orange, and the onion finely diced. The dressing should coat every piece smoothly without pooling, giving the slaw a glossy, pale‑cream color.

technical
Q

How do I know when this coleslaw is done cooking?

A

Coleslaw does not require cooking; it is done when the vegetables are fully coated with the dressing and have chilled for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel ItsMeKellz specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel ItsMeKellz focuses on simple, home‑cooked Southern comfort foods, offering quick tutorials for classic dishes like fried fish, hush puppies, and easy side salads such as this coleslaw.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel ItsMeKellz's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

ItsMeKellz emphasizes straightforward, no‑fuss techniques using everyday pantry staples, often sharing personal family tips (like the thin‑shredded cabbage style) that give a home‑grown feel compared to more elaborate or gourmet Southern cooking channels.

channel

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