Tired of the same old boring coleslaw? Craving something a little different, something with a kick? Then look no further! This creamy spicy coleslaw recipe is the perfect side dish to elevate your next barbecue, potluck, or even a simple weeknight dinner. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly healthy. Get ready to experience a coleslaw like you've never tasted before! This recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, or simply delicious dishes made with homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise works great too!)
- 1/4 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt (for a tangier flavor)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (or more, depending on your spice preference – we recommend Frank's RedHot!)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped red onion for extra zing!
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
First, thinly slice your cabbage. Using a mandoline slicer or food processor will make this step much faster and easier. Shred the carrot using a grater or food processor. If using, finely chop the red onion.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk (or yogurt), apple cider vinegar, sugar (or honey), hot sauce, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more hot sauce for extra heat, or a touch more sugar for extra sweetness. This is where you can really personalize the recipe to your liking!
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Add the sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, and (if using) red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the tastier it gets! We recommend chilling for at least an hour, or even overnight for the best results.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the heat. For a milder coleslaw, use less hot sauce. For a fiery kick, add more!
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, increase the amount of sugar or honey. You could also experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with add-ins! Chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even some crumbled bacon would be delicious additions.
- Make it Ahead: This creamy spicy coleslaw is even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time for parties or gatherings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
This creamy spicy coleslaw recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for adding a vibrant and delicious side dish to any meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional side dishes. Enjoy!