Quick & Easy Coleslaw
Quick & Easy Coleslaw is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 228 calories per serving. Recipe by B Wood Cooks on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $4.57 total, $1.14 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 bag Pre‑shredded Coleslaw Mix (Typically 14‑oz bag of cabbage and carrot mix)
- ½ cup Mayonnaise (Duke's or any good quality mayo)
- 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (A pinch adds tang)
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1.5 tbsp Honey (Adds a subtle sweetness; can use 1‑2 tbsp to taste)
- ½ tsp Celery Seed (Adds classic coleslaw flavor)
- 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (optional) (If you prefer a sweeter slaw)
Instructions
Add Coleslaw Mix
Place the entire bag of pre‑shredded coleslaw mix into the large mixing bowl.
Time: PT1M
Add Mayonnaise
Spoon ½ cup of mayonnaise over the cabbage mixture.
Time: PT1M
Add Dijon Mustard
Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (a pinch) to the bowl.
Time: PT30S
Add Apple Cider Vinegar
Pour 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into the mixture.
Time: PT30S
Add Honey
Drizzle 1½ tablespoons of honey over the bowl (adjust to 1‑2 tbsp if you like it sweeter).
Time: PT1M
Add Celery Seed
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of celery seed (or a pinch) into the bowl.
Time: PT30S
Mix Thoroughly
Using the spatula, toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 228
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 24 g
- Fat
- 20 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Not Vegan
Allergens: Egg (in mayonnaise), Honey, Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pre‑shredded Coleslaw Mix: Shredded green cabbage and carrots (home‑shredded)
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Other brand mayo, Vegan mayo (if avoiding egg)
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard, Stone‑ground mustard
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: White wine vinegar, Lemon juice
- Instead of Honey: Maple syrup, Granulated sugar
- Instead of Celery Seed: Celery salt (use half the amount)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar (optional): Honey, Maple syrup
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Large Spoon
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring the coleslaw mix is fully coated with the dressing.
- Balancing the sweet (honey) and acidic (vinegar) components.
- Refrigerating for at least one hour before serving.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a chilled bowl to keep the slaw crisp.
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced red onion or bell pepper just before serving.
- If you like a creamier texture, increase mayo to ¾ cup.
Troubleshooting
Coleslaw is too dry.
Add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a drizzle of honey and mix again.
Coleslaw is watery.
Add more coleslaw mix or a pinch of extra celery seed to absorb excess liquid.
Flavor is bland.
Increase Dijon mustard by ½ tsp or add a splash more apple cider vinegar.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3‑5 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours; keep chilled for best quality.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the coleslaw up to step 7, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- The flavor improves after chilling; you can make it a day ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of coleslaw in American cuisine?
Coleslaw originated from Dutch “koolsla” (cabbage salad) and became a staple in American Southern cooking, especially as a cool, crunchy side for fried and barbecued dishes.
What are the traditional regional variations of coleslaw in the United States?
In the South, coleslaw is often creamy with mayo, while in the Midwest it may be sweeter with sugar or honey. Some West Coast versions use a vinaigrette base instead of mayo.
How is coleslaw traditionally served in Southern barbecue gatherings?
It is typically served chilled as a side dish alongside smoked ribs, pulled pork, or fried chicken, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors.
What occasions or celebrations is coleslaw traditionally associated with in American culture?
Coleslaw appears at picnics, family barbecues, Fourth of July cookouts, and holiday meals such as Thanksgiving when a lighter side is desired.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a classic American coleslaw versus acceptable substitutes?
Classic American coleslaw uses shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a touch of sugar or honey. Substitutes include pre‑shredded mixes, different mustards, or alternative sweeteners like maple syrup.
What other American dishes pair well with this quick & easy coleslaw?
It pairs beautifully with grilled burgers, fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, smoked brisket, and even as a topping for fish tacos.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this quick & easy coleslaw?
Common errors include over‑mixing (which bruises the cabbage), using too much vinegar (making it soggy), or not chilling long enough, which prevents the flavors from melding.
Why does this coleslaw recipe use honey instead of granulated sugar?
Honey adds a smooth sweetness that blends easily with the mayo‑vinegar dressing, giving a richer mouthfeel than dry sugar, which can leave a gritty texture.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, prepare up to the mixing step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least one hour. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; do not freeze.
What does the YouTube channel B Wood Cooks specialize in?
The YouTube channel B Wood Cooks focuses on quick, family‑friendly recipes that require minimal prep, often using store‑bought shortcuts and clear, step‑by‑step instructions.
How does the YouTube channel B Wood Cooks' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
B Wood Cooks emphasizes speed and simplicity, favoring pre‑prepared ingredients and straightforward seasoning rather than elaborate techniques, making everyday comfort dishes accessible to busy home cooks.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
