Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar

Name: Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded; 1 large carrot, grated; 1 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Simple Salads | Fresh Greens

I love whipping up a classic Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar, especially during the summer months. The crisp cabbage combined with a tangy vinegar dressing brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. It's a timeless recipe that reminds me of family barbecues and potlucks. I appreciate how simple it is to put together and how the flavors meld beautifully over time, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. This coleslaw is not just a side but a delightful addition to sandwiches and burgers as well!

Created by

The Chefkarlcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:34:20.597Z

When I first made this Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar, I was surprised at how a few simple ingredients could create such a flavorful side dish. The crispness of the cabbage works perfectly with the tangy vinegar dressing that I often tweak with my own spice blends. I love that it doesn’t require any special cooking skills, making it accessible for anyone just getting started in the kitchen.

Through trial and error, I found that letting the coleslaw sit for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This resting period makes a world of difference as the cabbage softens slightly and absorbs the dressing, giving every bite an irresistible crunch that complements grilled meats or sandwiches perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crisp and crunchy texture that complements any meal
Tangy vinegar dressing that stands out without being overly heavy
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient in this Old Fashioned Coleslaw is the green cabbage, known for its crunch and ability to hold up well in dressings. Choose a cabbage that feels heavy for its size and has tightly packed leaves for the best texture. The finely shredded cabbage helps the dressing cling better, ensuring that each bite is full of flavor. Additionally, the grated carrot adds a natural sweetness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.

Apple cider vinegar plays a crucial role in this coleslaw recipe, providing sharp acidity that balances the sweetness of the sugar. The combination of sugar and vinegar creates a harmonious sweet-tangy profile that elevates the entire dish. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute white wine vinegar or even lemon juice, but the traditional taste of apple cider vinegar is hard to beat.

Preparation Tips for the Best Coleslaw

When shredding the cabbage, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even marinating and softer bites. I find using a sharp chef's knife or a mandoline slicer works best. If you're in a hurry, pre-packaged coleslaw mixes are a time-saver but may compromise on texture. After shredding, gently toss the cabbage with salt to draw out excess moisture; this keeps the coleslaw from becoming soggy as it sits.

For the dressing, whisking the ingredients together until the sugar fully dissolves is essential for a smooth blend. Letting it sit for a few minutes helps the flavors develop further. I recommend tasting the dressing before pouring it over the coleslaw; you can adjust the sugar or vinegar according to your preference, ensuring it aligns with your desired balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delightful Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar:

Coleslaw Ingredients

1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure every piece of cabbage is coated with the tangy dressing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar:

Prepare the Cabbage and Carrot

Finely shred the cabbage and grate the carrot. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrot. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Let the coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy this delightful coleslaw as a side or as a topping for your favorite sandwiches!

Pro Tips

For a bit of a kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños into the mix. Additionally, letting the coleslaw sit overnight in the fridge can enhance its flavor even more.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This coleslaw is an excellent make-ahead option; in fact, it often tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a while. Allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully. For optimal freshness, you can store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, if you plan to serve this at a gathering, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the cabbage's crunch.

If you find you've made too much, coleslaw can also be frozen for later use. When freezing, place the coleslaw in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. While the crunch may diminish upon thawing, the flavor will still be delightful in cooked dishes like casseroles or stir-fries.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Old Fashioned Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, providing a refreshing contrast to rich flavors. I love serving it alongside BBQ ribs or atop a pulled pork sandwich for an added crunch. It also makes for a fantastic topping on tacos, giving them a satisfying texture and flavor burst.

Feel free to experiment with variations; adding chopped apples or raisins can introduce a delightful sweetness. For a spicy kick, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider substituting some or all of it with a sugar alternative to fit your dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! Coleslaw can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated, and it will taste even better the next day.

→ Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Absolutely! You can use red cabbage for a more colorful coleslaw or even a mix of cabbages for varied textures.

→ Is it necessary to add sugar?

The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, but you can adjust the sweetness to your preference or omit it if you prefer a more tangy flavor.

→ What can I serve with coleslaw?

Coleslaw is a great side for grilled meats, burgers, or as a topping for tacos and sandwiches!