Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar

Name: Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded; 1 medium carrot, shredded; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I absolutely love this Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar recipe. The vibrant crunch of fresh cabbage combined with the tangy brightness of vinegar creates a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats or sandwiches. I typically prepare this coleslaw for family gatherings or summer barbecues, and it never fails to impress. In just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and light, making it a go-to in my kitchen. It’s a classic that everyone should try at least once!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:26:18.884Z

When I first tried making this Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar, I wasn’t sure how such a simple dish could be so satisfying. It turns out that the key to its deliciousness lies in the balance of flavors—the sharp vinegar against the sweetness of the cabbage works wonders. I love putting this dish together in the summer months when cabbage is fresh and crisp.

I usually let the coleslaw sit for a little while before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive taste. If you can resist, letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances the crunchiness too. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture that refreshes your palette
Tangy, sweet dressing that perfectly complements the veggies
Quick to make and perfect for any gathering

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using a fresh head of cabbage is crucial for making this Old Fashioned Coleslaw. Look for a cabbage that feels heavy for its size and has firm, solid leaves. Fresh cabbage not only maintains a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you prefer a more colorful coleslaw, consider adding a splash of red cabbage to the mix and including additional vegetable options like bell peppers or radishes for a pop of color and flavor.

Carrots play a vital role in balancing the tanginess of the vinegar dressing. The sweetness of freshly shredded carrots complements the acidity and adds natural sweetness to the coleslaw. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded carrots work well, but nothing beats the fresh crunch from whole carrots. Grating them yourself can also improve the texture, ensuring they integrate smoothly with the cabbage.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens in this recipe. When whisking together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices, it’s essential to create a harmonious balance of flavors. If you find the dressing too tangy, adding a little more sugar can help balance it out. Conversely, if you prefer a more acidic profile, you can increase the vinegar to suit your taste. Taste as you mix to ensure you achieve the desired flavor right from the start.

To achieve a beautifully emulsified dressing, take your time when incorporating the olive oil. Add it gradually while whisking vigorously. This method creates a smooth, glossy dressing that coats the cabbage evenly, enhancing every bite. If you prefer an oil-free option, substituting with a tablespoon of mustard mixed with the vinegar can provide creaminess without the fat, while adding a zesty kick.

Serving and Storing Tips

For the best flavor experience, serve your coleslaw after it has chilled for at least 30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. If you are preparing the coleslaw ahead of time, you can make it up to two days in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, if you prefer a crunchier texture, add the dressing just an hour before serving to prevent the cabbage from wilting.

When it comes to serving, this coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be used as a topping in sandwiches and tacos. If you want to implement a creative twist, consider tossing in some chopped herbs like parsley or dill just before serving for added freshness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and while the texture may soften over time, the flavors only get better.

Ingredients

Coleslaw Mix

1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
1 medium carrot, shredded

Dressing

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot. Mix until well combined.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, and olive oil until the sugar dissolves.

Combine

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well to combine and ensure all the vegetables are coated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for added flavor.

Ingredient Variations

While this Old Fashioned Coleslaw recipe is a classic, variations can enhance it according to personal taste or dietary needs. If you're looking to add some sweetness without sugar, try incorporating a handful of raisins or diced apples. This not only adds another layer of flavor but also brings in natural sugars, making the dish appealing to those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their salads.

For those following a low-sodium diet, you can reduce the salt in the dressing and use fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to heighten the flavor without relying on salt. Additionally, replacing regular olive oil with a lighter oil like avocado oil can lower the fat content, making your coleslaw even healthier without sacrificing taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with coleslaw is the dressing becoming too watery after sitting. This usually occurs when the cabbage releases too much moisture. To mitigate this, you can salt the shredded cabbage first and let it sit for about 20 minutes. This process, called wilting, helps draw out excess moisture while maintaining a crunchy texture. Just be sure to rinse it before mixing to remove excess salt.

If you've accidentally made your dressing too sweet, a simple fix is to add more vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance out the sweetness. Adding a splash of mustard can also help round out the flavors, providing acidity and depth. Tasting and adjusting is key; don’t hesitate to tweak until you find the perfect balance for your palate.

Scaling the Recipe

If you need to scale this coleslaw recipe for a larger gathering, simply multiply the ingredient quantities while maintaining the same ratios. This coleslaw is easy to double or even triple, but remember that you'll need a larger mixing bowl to accommodate the greater volume. A good rule of thumb is to allow for about 1/2 cup of coleslaw per serving, especially if it's part of a buffet.

For smaller portions, you can easily halve the recipe, but be cautious during the mixing process. A smaller quantity may require less vigorous mixing to ensure the dressing thoroughly integrates with the vegetables. Store any leftovers the same way as larger batches, ensuring you keep the coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this coleslaw in advance?

Yes, it's best to prepare it a few hours ahead of serving or even the day before for maximum flavor development.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even green onions for additional flavor and crunch.

→ Is there a way to make this coleslaw less sweet?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar or even omit it entirely if you prefer a tangier coleslaw.

→ Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, feel free to double the ingredients if you’re serving a larger crowd.