Craving that creamy, crunchy, tangy coleslaw you get at Red Lobster? Stop dreaming and start making! This copycat recipe lets you recreate that irresistible side dish right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, uses readily available ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory feast. Get ready to elevate your next meal with this homemade, restaurant-quality coleslaw.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients to make this delicious coleslaw.
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: Let's make some delicious coleslaw!
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Begin by thinly slicing the green cabbage. You want nice, even pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture. Shred the carrot using a grater or food processor. Setting aside the prepped vegetables in a large bowl will make the mixing process much more efficient.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. This creates a creamy and tangy base for the coleslaw. Ensure all the ingredients are well combined to achieve a smooth and consistent dressing.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. The key here is to be gentle – you don't want to overmix and bruise the cabbage.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and enjoyable coleslaw. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will blend. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations for the Best Coleslaw:
- For extra crunch: Add some chopped celery or red onion to the coleslaw.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of paprika adds a subtle kick.
- Sweeten it up: A touch of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness.
- Make it lighter: Use a reduced-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Prep ahead: The coleslaw can be made a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
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
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Red Lobster coleslaw copycat recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and the homemade touch elevates it above store-bought versions. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying side dish, and don't forget to share it with your family and friends!