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Creamy Southern Coleslaw Recipe with Easy Buttermilk Dressing

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A creamy Southern coleslaw featuring finely shredded cabbage and a tangy buttermilk dressing that balances crispness and creaminess perfectly. Ideal for summer BBQs and potlucks, this recipe is quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and julienned or shredded
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables (10 minutes): Remove outer leaves of cabbage, cut into quarters, and slice out the core. Shred cabbage finely using a sharp knife or mandoline. Peel and julienne or shred carrots, then thinly slice red onion. Place all vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Buttermilk Dressing (5 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Toss the Slaw (2 minutes): Pour dressing over shredded vegetables and toss with two large spoons or salad tongs until thoroughly coated.
  4. Chill and Marinate (at least 30 minutes): Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cabbage to soften slightly.
  5. Final Taste Check (just before serving): Stir slaw again and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of buttermilk or vinegar if needed.

Notes

For best texture, shred cabbage thinly and let the slaw rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Use real buttermilk for authentic tang and creaminess. Adjust seasoning after chilling. Can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor. Substitute Napa cabbage for softer texture or use dairy-free buttermilk substitute for vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, southern coleslaw, buttermilk dressing, creamy coleslaw, BBQ side dish, summer salad, easy coleslaw recipe