Craving that irresistible, tangy sweetness you get from Cracker Barrel's famous coleslaw? Forget the drive-through – this recipe lets you recreate that iconic side dish in your own kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. Get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and refreshing homemade coleslaw that’s sure to become a family favorite. This is one of those easy recipes that consistently delivers amazing flavor, making it a staple for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) bag of shredded cabbage (a mix of green and red is beautiful!)
- 1 (8-ounce) bag of shredded carrots
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best flavor!)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Prep the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. Make sure to give it a good toss to evenly distribute the veggies.
-
Whisk the Dressing: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens! The creamy texture and tangy flavor come together beautifully.
-
Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Gently but thoroughly toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Don’t overmix; you want to maintain the texture of the cabbage and carrots.
-
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill. This step is key to letting the flavors fully develop, making it even more delicious! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Coleslaw:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the vegetables, the better the coleslaw will taste.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can bruise the cabbage and make it soggy. Gentle tossing is key.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or mustard to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter coleslaw, while others like it more tangy.
- Make it Ahead: This coleslaw tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Variations:
- Add Some Crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped pecans add a delightful crunch to your coleslaw.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little kick.
- Go Greek: Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
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: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Cholesterol: 5-10mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 5-7g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Cracker Barrel Coleslaw recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal, providing a refreshing and flavorful contrast to richer dishes. It’s a simple, yet delicious side dish that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a casual weeknight dinner. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking! This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are easy to prepare, making it one of the best recipes for busy individuals.