Craving a delicious and refreshing side dish that perfectly complements your favorite barbecue? Look no further! This Mission BBQ Coleslaw recipe is a game-changer. It's the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy, with a delightful crunch that will elevate any barbecue feast. This easy recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings – making it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll find this recipe simple to follow and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing, healthy meal addition!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) bag of shredded cabbage (a mix of green and red is visually appealing)
- 1 (8-ounce) bag of shredded carrots
- ½ cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand – full-fat for extra richness!)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (granulated or brown, depending on your sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. This is a great task for getting the kids involved in the kitchen!
Make 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. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – some prefer a tangier coleslaw, others sweeter.
Combine & Chill: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Gently toss until the vegetables are evenly coated. It's important not to overmix, as this can bruise the cabbage and make it less crunchy.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling period also helps the coleslaw to firm up and develop its signature crunch. The longer it sits, the tastier it becomes – up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Coleslaw:
- Fresh is Best: Use the freshest cabbage and carrots you can find for the best flavor and crunch.
- Don't Overdress: Add the dressing gradually, tasting as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with additions like chopped red onion, bell peppers, or even some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Make it Ahead: This coleslaw is even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time.
Variations:
- Spicy Coleslaw: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Coleslaw: Increase the amount of mayonnaise for an extra creamy texture.
- Light Coleslaw: Reduce the amount of mayonnaise and add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a healthier, lighter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise used) Fat: 10-15g Protein: 2-3g Carbohydrates: 15-20g Fiber: 2-3g
This Mission BBQ Coleslaw is a fantastic side dish for quick dinner ideas and barbecues. Its simple preparation and delicious taste make it a recipe you'll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!