We’ve always been fans of coleslaw’s crisp crunch and versatile flavors, and Zoe’s recipe brings a fresh twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Drawing from family traditions, this version combines everyday veggies with a zesty homemade dressing that elevates the classic dish.
What sets Zoe’s coleslaw apart is its balance of sweet and tangy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. We’re excited to guide you through this easy recipe so you can whip it up for your next meal.
Ingredients
To create our flavorful Zoe’s Coleslaw—a crisp, tangy side that elevates any meal—we start with these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order we use them, including prep specifics for precision and ease.
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups; remove outer leaves and core before shredding for the freshest crunch)
- 2 large carrots, grated (peel first and use the fine side of a grater for even texture)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (use a mandoline for uniform slices that add a zesty bite without overpowering)
- For the dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for creaminess that binds the flavors)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds the signature tang; opt for organic for a sharper note)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (balances sweetness with the acidity)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (provides a subtle kick; whole grain works for extra texture)
- ½ teaspoon salt (enhances overall taste; adjust based on preference)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (for a mild spice that ties everything together)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, we guide you through the simple steps to create Zoe’s coleslaw with its signature crisp texture and zesty tang. Let’s achieve that perfect balance of flavors for a refreshing side dish.
Prep the Vegetables
First, we tackle the vegetables to ensure they deliver maximum crunch and vibrancy. Begin by shredding 1 medium head of green cabbage into thin, even strips—aim for about 6 cups to provide that essential fresh base that forms the heart of our coleslaw. Next, grate 2 large carrots using a box grater for roughly 1 cup of vibrant orange shreds, which add a sweet, colorful contrast. Finally, slice 1 small red onion as thinly as possible—about ½ cup—to introduce a sharp, pungent note that enhances the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
Make the Dressing
With the vegetables prepped, we shift to crafting the homemade dressing that ties everything together with its sweet and tangy essence. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise for creaminess, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for a sharp kick, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to balance sweetness, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a subtle heat, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. This step creates our zesty dressing that coats the vegetables perfectly, elevating the coleslaw’s taste with every bite.
Assemble the Coleslaw
Finally, we bring it all together to achieve that irresistible mix of textures and flavors. In a large mixing bowl, toss the prepared vegetables—shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced onion—with the dressing until evenly coated, ensuring every piece glistens with the creamy mixture. For the best results, let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to retain their crisp freshness. Stir gently before serving to maintain that light, airy consistency.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best aspects of our Zoe’s coleslaw recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing flavors to meld and saving time during busy gatherings. We recommend planning ahead to ensure your coleslaw remains crisp and vibrantly flavorful, building on the chilling step from our preparation instructions.
Preparing Vegetables in Advance
To maximize crunch and freshness, prepare the vegetables up to 24 hours before serving. Start by shredding the green cabbage, grating the carrots, and slicing the red onion as outlined earlier. Store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture—this helps prevent sogginess and preserves that satisfying crisp texture.
Making the Dressing Ahead
Our homemade dressing, featuring mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, can be mixed up to 48 hours in advance. Combine the ingredients in a separate bowl or jar, whisk until smooth, and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the tangy and sweet notes to intensify, making your coleslaw even more irresistible when assembled.
Assembling and Storing the Coleslaw
For optimal results, assemble the full coleslaw—tossing the prepped vegetables with the dressing—no more than 2 hours before serving to avoid wilting. If preparing earlier, keep the vegetables and dressing separate in the refrigerator, then combine just before your event. Always chill the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes, as mentioned in our steps, to let the flavors harmonize.
Storage Guidelines
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Tips | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped Vegetables | Up to 24 hours | Use an airtight container in the fridge | Maintains crunch; avoid overcrowding |
| Dressing | Up to 48 hours | Store in a sealed jar or bowl | Shake well before using |
| Assembled Coleslaw | Up to 2 days | Cover tightly and refrigerate | Stir before serving; flavors peak after 1 hour |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Zoe’s coleslaw recipe and know it’ll become a go-to for your gatherings. It’s all about that fresh crunch and zesty twist that brings people together.
We’re confident you’ll tweak it to suit your style and enjoy every bite as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zoe’s coleslaw recipe?
Zoe’s coleslaw recipe is a fresh, crisp salad featuring shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced red onion, tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. It balances sweet and tangy flavors from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Drawing from family traditions, it’s perfect for summer gatherings and easy to prepare for everyday meals.
What ingredients are needed for Zoe’s coleslaw?
The main ingredients include shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, thinly sliced red onion, and a dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and flavor, with tips like shredding cabbage finely for even mixing.
How do you prepare Zoe’s coleslaw?
Start by prepping vegetables: shred cabbage, grate carrots, and slice onion. Then, mix the dressing by combining mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss veggies with the dressing, chill for at least 30 minutes, and serve. This simple process takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time.
Can I make Zoe’s coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, prepare vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container with a paper towel to keep them crisp. Make the dressing up to 48 hours ahead for deeper flavors. Assemble the coleslaw no more than 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
How should I store Zoe’s coleslaw?
Store prepped vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep dressing refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Once assembled, coleslaw lasts 2-3 days in the fridge; stir before serving to refresh. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.