Print

Fresh Coleslaw Recipe That Won’t Get Watery

fresh coleslaw recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A crisp, tangy coleslaw recipe featuring a secret cornstarch step that keeps the slaw fresh and prevents it from getting watery, perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup peeled and shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Remove outer leaves of cabbage, cut into quarters, and finely shred using a box grater or food processor until you have about 6 cups.
  2. Peel and shred the carrots. Thinly slice the red onion if using. Transfer all to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cornstarch evenly over the shredded cabbage and carrots. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat and absorb moisture.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the dressing over the coated cabbage mixture and toss gently but completely to dress every shred.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to let flavors meld and cabbage crisp up (optional but recommended).
  7. Before serving, give the coleslaw a final stir and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar to taste.

Notes

Dusting shredded cabbage with cornstarch before adding dressing absorbs moisture and keeps the slaw crisp. Salt helps draw out moisture but combined with cornstarch traps it rather than pooling. Chill the slaw for best texture and flavor. Avoid overmixing to preserve crunch. For dairy-free, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or coconut yogurt and adjust vinegar and sweetener accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, fresh coleslaw, BBQ side dish, no watery coleslaw, cornstarch coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, picnic side dish

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/fresh-coleslaw-recipe-that-wont-get-watery-easy-homemade-secret-ingredient/