Are you craving a vibrant, crunchy side dish that's both incredibly easy to make and bursting with fresh flavor? Look no further! This Coleslaw recipe takes inspiration from the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, simplifying his approach to create a quick and healthy side perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light accompaniment to any main course. Forget complicated dressings and endless ingredients; this recipe emphasizes fresh, quality ingredients and a simple, yet incredibly effective, homemade dressing. It's the perfect example of how delicious food recipes can be quick dinner ideas, too!
Ingredients:
- 1 small red cabbage, thinly sliced (about 500g)
- 2 carrots, peeled and julienned or grated
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand or make your own!)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Start by prepping your vegetables. Thinly slice the red cabbage, ensuring it's not too thick or it will be difficult to eat. Julienne or grate the carrots for even cooking and a better texture. Thinly slice the red onion; this helps reduce its strong bite.
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Mix it Up: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cabbage, julienned carrots, and red onion. Avoid over-mixing, as this can bruise the cabbage and make it soggy.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and celery seed. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add a little more honey for extra sweetness or vinegar for a sharper tang depending on your preference.
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Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. It's important not to over-mix, as this can break down the cabbage. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also allows the cabbage to soften slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: After 30 minutes (or longer, if time allows), give your coleslaw another gentle toss and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and enjoy alongside your favorite meal!
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For a creamier coleslaw: Use a little more mayonnaise.
- For a tangier coleslaw: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts make a delicious addition.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce will add a kick.
- Make it vegan: Replace mayonnaise with a vegan alternative.
- Prep ahead: This coleslaw tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This easy coleslaw recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish, perfect for those looking for healthy meals or quick dinner ideas. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. So, ditch the store-bought versions and experience the freshness and flavor of this homemade coleslaw – you won’t regret it!