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Creamy Southern Coleslaw Recipe with Tangy Buttermilk Dressing

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A classic southern coleslaw featuring a creamy, tangy buttermilk dressing that perfectly balances richness and freshness. Ideal as a side for BBQs and picnics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, shredded
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Shred the vegetables: Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbages. Slice the heads in half, then thinly shred using a mandoline or knife. Shred the carrots and slice the green onions thinly. Toss all the vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine and toss: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss gently but thoroughly so every shred is lightly coated.
  4. Chill and rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  5. Final stir and serve: Before serving, gently stir the coleslaw. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Drain any excess liquid if the slaw looks watery.

Notes

If buttermilk is unavailable, substitute with ½ cup milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes. For vegan adaptation, use vegan mayo and plant-based buttermilk alternatives. Avoid over-shredding cabbage to maintain crunch. Celery seed adds authentic southern flavor; dry mustard powder can substitute if unavailable. Make ahead by preparing dressing separately and tossing veggies just before serving to keep crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, southern coleslaw, buttermilk dressing, creamy coleslaw, BBQ side dish, picnic salad, tangy coleslaw

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/creamy-southern-coleslaw-recipe-with-tangy-buttermilk-dressing-easy-and-best/