Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something vibrant, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further than this classic Dole coleslaw recipe, the one you've probably glimpsed on the back of the bag! This recipe takes the familiar and elevates it, transforming a simple bag of shredded cabbage and carrots into a delicious and refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will have you whipping up a batch in minutes. It's the perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients: A Simple Blend of Freshness
This recipe relies on the high-quality ingredients found in a bag of Dole's pre-shredded cabbage and carrots – making it incredibly convenient! Here’s what you'll need:
- 1 (16 ounce) bag Dole shredded cabbage and carrots mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup sugar (granulated or powdered work well)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar (apple cider vinegar is a tasty alternative)
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (Dijon adds a nice kick!)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but enhances the flavor beautifully)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: A Quick & Easy Guide to Coleslaw Perfection
This recipe is so easy, it's almost cheating! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious coleslaw:
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Prep the Ingredients: Open your bag of Dole shredded cabbage and carrots and place it in a large bowl. If you prefer a finer slaw, you can roughly chop it further, but this step isn't strictly necessary.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, mustard, and celery seed (if using) until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really customize your slaw!
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Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, gently tossing until all the vegetables are evenly coated. It's important not to overmix, as this can make the slaw soggy.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the slaw to chill, enhancing its crispness and taste. Even better, make it ahead of time for maximum flavor development!
Tips & Tricks for Coleslaw Success
- For a sweeter slaw: Increase the sugar to 1/3 cup.
- For a tangier slaw: Use more vinegar or substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, or crispy fried onions for extra texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Use a higher fat mayonnaise for a richer and creamier slaw.
- Homemade Mayonnaise: Take your coleslaw to the next level by using homemade mayonnaise!
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basic
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations to inspire your creativity:
- Rainbow Coleslaw: Add shredded red cabbage and bell peppers for a vibrant and colorful slaw.
- Asian-Inspired Coleslaw: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger in the dressing for a unique twist.
- Curried Coleslaw: Incorporate curry powder and a touch of coconut milk for an exotic flavor.
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 Dole coleslaw recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking and delicious dishes. It's quick, easy, and undeniably satisfying. Enjoy!