Thanksgiving just wouldn’t feel the same without a big bowl of crunchy, refreshing coleslaw on the table! I remember my first Thanksgiving where I helped my mom prepare the feast, and she insisted we make her famous coleslaw. The way it brought a bright, crisp contrast to the heavier dishes was magical. Every bite was a burst of freshness, and I couldn’t get enough! This Thanksgiving coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of color and texture that elevates any holiday meal. I can’t wait for you to try it—it’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Coleslaw
- 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Coleslaw
Making this Thanksgiving coleslaw is a breeze! Trust me, you’ll have it ready in no time, and it’ll bring such a delightful crunch to your holiday spread. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl (the bigger, the better!) and add in your shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots. I love the vibrant colors here! Just toss them together gently with your hands or a spoon until everything’s well mixed. You want those beautiful veggies to shine!
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Now, in a separate bowl, let’s whip up the dressing. Combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to blend everything together until it’s nice and creamy. The apple cider vinegar adds such a lovely tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar. Mmm, yum!
Step 3: Toss and Refrigerate
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Now, here’s the fun part—give it a good toss! Make sure all the veggies are coated evenly with that creamy goodness. After that, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time really lets the flavors mingle and develop, so don’t skip it! When you’re ready to serve, you’ll have a refreshingly crisp coleslaw that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving feast!
Tips for Success with Thanksgiving Coleslaw
To really nail this Thanksgiving coleslaw, here are a few of my go-to tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste. I often start with a tablespoon and taste along the way. If you want that extra crunch, you can serve it immediately after mixing, but letting it chill for a bit really enhances the flavors. Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some diced apples or raisins for a sweet twist! This coleslaw pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even as a topping for sandwiches the next day. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information for Thanksgiving Coleslaw
This Thanksgiving coleslaw is not just delicious, but also a light addition to your holiday table! Each serving (about 1/2 cup) comes in at around 150 calories, with 12g of fat, 2g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find 3g of sugar and 2g of fiber in there. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. But hey, it’s a tasty and guilt-free way to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
FAQ about Thanksgiving Coleslaw
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just mix everything together, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. The flavors will get even better as they sit!
What if I don’t like mayonnaise?
No worries at all! You can substitute Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for the mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter option. It’ll still be delicious!
How long can I store leftover coleslaw?
You can keep leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I add other ingredients to the coleslaw?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some diced apples, nuts, or raisins for added flavor and crunch. It’s all about making it your own!
What dishes pair well with this coleslaw?
This Thanksgiving coleslaw goes wonderfully with turkey, ham, or even as a topping for sandwiches. It adds a refreshing crunch to any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Coleslaw
- It’s super quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of holiday meals.
- Versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Brightens up your Thanksgiving table with vibrant colors.
- A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
This Thanksgiving coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful addition that everyone will rave about. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for every holiday gathering!
Variations of Thanksgiving Coleslaw
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Thanksgiving coleslaw, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! Try adding diced apples for a sweet crunch or throw in some raisins for a chewy texture. If you want a bit of spice, a handful of chopped jalapeños can bring a surprising kick! You could also switch out the dressing—try a tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice for a lighter option. For a nutty flavor, toss in some sunflower seeds or slivered almonds. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Coleslaw
This Thanksgiving coleslaw is such a versatile side that it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside classic roasted turkey or glazed ham, as the crunch of the coleslaw complements the savory flavors perfectly. It also works wonders as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, adding that refreshing zing! If you’re planning a buffet-style meal, consider placing it next to stuffing and mashed potatoes for a colorful spread. And let’s not forget—this coleslaw makes a fantastic side for a casual barbecue too! No matter the occasion, it’s sure to be a hit!
Print
Thanksgiving Coleslaw: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Crunchy Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crunchy and refreshing coleslaw perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
- For a crunchier texture, serve immediately after mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: thanksgiving coleslaw
