Quick and easy coleslaw dressing 
Quick and easy coleslaw dressing  is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 380 calories per serving. Recipe by benjamins.kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 13 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 23 min
Cost: $5.02 total, $0.84 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup Honey (Aunt Sue's honey; can substitute agave syrup or granulated sugar)
- 1.5 cup Mayonnaise (Best Foods brand; adjust for desired creaminess)
- 0.5 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Half a tablespoon; can increase to taste)
- 2 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (Provides tang; add more for extra zip)
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed, not bottled)
- 1 pinch Salt (Season to taste)
- 1 pinch Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Green Onions (Green parts only, chopped)
- 4 cup Coleslaw Mix (Pre‑shredded cabbage and carrot blend (about one 12‑oz bag))
Instructions
Make the Dressing
In the mixing bowl, combine honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk (or vigorously stir with the fork) until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
Time: PT5M
Add Green Onions
Stir the chopped green‑onion tops into the dressing until evenly distributed.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Coleslaw Base
Place the pre‑shredded coleslaw mix into a large bowl.
Time: PT1M
Combine Dressing and Coleslaw
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix. Using the fork, toss the salad, making sure to coat every shred. Reach under the bowl, lift the mixture, and repeat until evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 380
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 12g
- Fat
- 35g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains honey, Gluten‑free
Allergens: Eggs (in mayonnaise), Honey, Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Honey: Agave syrup, Granulated sugar
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, Vegan mayo
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard, Spicy brown mustard
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: White wine vinegar, Rice vinegar
- Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Green Onions: Chives, Scallions
- Instead of Coleslaw Mix: Homemade shredded cabbage and carrots
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Whisk (optional)
- Refrigerator
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the dressing until fully emulsified.
- Toss the coleslaw thoroughly to coat every shred.
- Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature mayo for a smoother emulsion.
- A tiny splash of olive oil adds richness without changing the flavor profile.
- Taste the dressing before adding to the cabbage; adjust acidity with extra lemon or vinegar.
Troubleshooting
The dressing separates after mixing.
Whisk vigorously again; add a splash more mayonnaise or a drizzle of honey to re‑emulsify.
Coleslaw becomes soggy.
Drain any excess liquid before serving and add a little extra dressing if needed.
Storage
Refrigerator: Airtight container, up to 5 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Room temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Mix the dressing with the coleslaw no more than 24 hours before serving to retain crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of coleslaw in American cuisine?
Coleslaw originated from European cabbage salads brought by immigrants and became a staple in American Southern and Mid‑Atlantic cooking, often served alongside fried foods, barbecue, and holiday meals.
What are the traditional regional variations of coleslaw in the United States?
In the South, coleslaw is often creamy with mayo and a touch of sugar; in the Midwest, a sweeter version with apples or raisins is common; the West Coast favors lighter vinaigrette‑based slaws with citrus.
How is coleslaw traditionally served in Southern US gatherings?
Southern gatherings typically serve coleslaw as a cool, creamy side to balance hot, fried dishes like fried chicken, catfish, or barbecue ribs, often placed on the buffet table alongside baked beans and cornbread.
What occasions or celebrations is coleslaw traditionally associated with in American culture?
Coleslaw appears at picnics, barbecues, Fourth of July cookouts, Thanksgiving, and family potlucks because it can be made ahead and stays fresh in the fridge.
What makes coleslaw special in American side‑dish tradition?
Its crunchy texture, tangy‑sweet flavor, and ability to complement rich, fried, or smoky mains make coleslaw a versatile and beloved side dish across the United States.
How has coleslaw evolved over time in American cuisine?
Originally a simple cabbage salad, coleslaw has evolved to include a wide range of dressings—from classic mayo‑based to Asian‑inspired sesame‑soy sauces—and creative add‑ins like pineapple, jalapeño, or herbs.
What are common misconceptions about coleslaw?
Many think coleslaw must be sweet and heavy, but it can be light, tangy, and even dairy‑free when made with vinaigrette or yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this coleslaw dressing?
Common errors include using cold mayo (which can cause a grainy texture), not whisking long enough for a smooth emulsion, and adding too much vinegar, which can overpower the honey’s sweetness.
Why does this recipe use honey instead of granulated sugar for sweetness?
Honey adds a richer, floral sweetness and helps the dressing emulsify better than dry sugar, giving the coleslaw a smoother mouthfeel and a subtle flavor depth.
How do I know when the coleslaw is properly coated and ready to chill?
When every shred is lightly glossy and the dressing clings without pooling at the bottom, the coleslaw is fully coated and ready for the brief refrigeration step.
What does the YouTube channel benjamins.kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel benjamins.kitchen focuses on practical, budget‑friendly home cooking tutorials that emphasize simple techniques, ingredient swaps, and making the most of pantry staples.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel benjamins.kitchen?
benjamins.kitchen promotes a no‑waste, hands‑on approach, encouraging viewers to customize recipes, use everyday tools, and learn the why behind each step for confident home cooking.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
