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Creamy Southern Coleslaw Recipe with Easy Buttermilk Dressing

creamy Southern coleslaw - featured image

A creamy Southern coleslaw featuring a tangy buttermilk dressing that balances sweetness and acidity, perfect for summer BBQs and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
  • 23 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables (10-15 minutes): Remove outer leaves of green and red cabbage, cut into quarters, remove core, and shred finely using a mandoline or sharp knife. Peel and grate carrots, slice green onions thinly. Toss all into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Buttermilk Dressing (5 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon celery seed. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Combine and Toss (2-3 minutes): Pour dressing over shredded vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly until evenly coated.
  4. Chill Before Serving (at least 30 minutes): Cover bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  5. Final Taste and Adjustments: Stir and taste before serving; add more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.

Notes

For dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with unsweetened coconut yogurt mixed with lemon juice and mayonnaise with vegan mayo. Chill the slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture. Avoid overdressing before chilling to prevent sogginess. Adjust honey and vinegar to taste depending on buttermilk tang.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, southern coleslaw, buttermilk dressing, creamy coleslaw, summer BBQ side, easy coleslaw recipe