Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table, and the food is as abundant as the love in the room. While the turkey often steals the spotlight, I truly believe that the sides are what make the meal unforgettable. That’s where my *thanksgiving coleslaw* comes in—crunchy, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing! It’s a burst of color on the plate and a delightful contrast to all the rich dishes. I remember my grandmother making this coleslaw every year, and the moment I took a bite, I was hooked. It’s become a staple in my house too! I love how it adds a crisp texture and a zesty kick that balances out the heaviness of the holiday feast. Trust me; this coleslaw will become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving tradition, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare *Thanksgiving Coleslaw*
Getting your *thanksgiving coleslaw* ready is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! Here’s how I whip it up in no time, ensuring that it’s fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Trust me; you’ll want to take notes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large bowl. You’ll want it big enough to mix everything together without making a mess. First, toss in the 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, and 1/2 cup of shredded red cabbage. I love the vibrant colors they add!
- In a separate bowl, let’s create the dressing. Combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. The honey gives it that perfect hint of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the vinegar.
- Now, pour that luscious dressing over your cabbage mixture. Grab a pair of tongs or a large spoon and gently toss everything together until the cabbage and carrots are coated evenly. It’s like a little dance party in the bowl!
- Once it’s beautifully mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. This is crucial! Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to get even crunchier!
- After chilling, give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you’re ready to serve it up at your Thanksgiving feast!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness in this *thanksgiving coleslaw*! It’s not only delicious but also packs a decent punch when it comes to being a healthier side option for your holiday meal. Here’s a rough estimate of what you’ll find in each serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the exact ingredients you use and portion sizes, but I always find it reassuring to know I’m serving something that adds a bit of crunch without the guilt. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for those busy holiday kitchens!
- Deliciously crunchy texture that adds a refreshing contrast to heavier Thanksgiving dishes.
- Made with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier side option for your feast.
- Versatile flavor profile that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, and all your favorite sides.
- Can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on the main event without stress.
- Customizable to suit your taste—feel free to add your favorite crunchy toppings!
- Brightens up your Thanksgiving table with its vibrant colors and appealing presentation.
Tips for Success
To make sure your *thanksgiving coleslaw* turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few insider tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me; these little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your coleslaw from good to amazing!
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your coleslaw a bit sweeter, don’t hesitate to add a touch more honey! Just taste as you go, and remember, you can always add but can’t take away.
- Chill Time is Key: Allowing your coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes really helps the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you can, make it a day in advance. The longer it sits, the better it gets!
- Crunch Factor: Want to amp up the crunch? Toss in some sunflower seeds or chopped nuts. They add a delightful texture that complements the cabbage perfectly.
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh cabbage and carrots for the best crunch and flavor. Wilty veggies can lead to a soggy coleslaw, and nobody wants that!
- Toss Gently: When mixing the cabbage and dressing, be gentle! You want to coat the veggies without bruising them. It’s all about keeping that lovely crunch intact.
- Serve in Style: Present your coleslaw in a beautiful bowl or dish to make it pop on your Thanksgiving table. A little garnish like some extra shredded carrots or herbs can go a long way!
With these tips in your back pocket, I’m sure your *thanksgiving coleslaw* will be a standout side dish that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to give your *thanksgiving coleslaw* a fun twist, you’re in luck! There are so many ways to make this dish your own. Here are some ideas that I love to play around with:
- Herb Infusion: Add a pop of freshness by tossing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro. They really brighten up the flavors and make the coleslaw sing!
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing. It’s a delightful surprise that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
- Fruit Fusion: Consider mixing in some diced apples, raisins, or even pineapple for a fruity twist. The added sweetness and texture will take your coleslaw to a whole new level!
- Creamy Alternative: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version. It adds a lovely creaminess while cutting down on calories.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle in some toasted sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or pecans for that extra crunch. They not only enhance the texture but also add a nice nutty flavor!
- Cranberry Boost: Dried cranberries or a handful of fresh cranberries can add a beautiful tartness that balances the richness of the Thanksgiving feast perfectly.
- Asian Twist: For a unique spin, try adding a splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, and some shredded snap peas or edamame. It’s a refreshing change that’s sure to impress your guests!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own! The beauty of *thanksgiving coleslaw* is its versatility. Make it your own, and watch it become a standout dish at your holiday table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your *thanksgiving coleslaw* properly is key to keeping it fresh and crunchy! After your feast, if you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s that good!), here’s what you need to do:
- Refrigeration: Place the coleslaw in an airtight container to keep it fresh. This will help prevent it from absorbing any odors from your fridge and keep it tasting delightful. It should last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- No Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage can become mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
- Before Serving: When you’re ready to dig in again, just give it a little stir. You might find that the dressing has settled, so mixing it up will redistribute all those delicious flavors. If it seems a bit dry, a splash of vinegar or a dollop of mayonnaise can help bring it back to life!
Remember, coleslaw is best when it’s fresh, so try to make just enough for your gathering. But if you do have leftovers, these tips will ensure you still enjoy that crunchy goodness later on!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the turkey may take center stage, but your *thanksgiving coleslaw* is here to shine as the perfect companion! I love to pair it with a variety of dishes to create a well-rounded and memorable meal. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Roast Turkey: The classic pairing! The juicy flavors of the turkey combined with the crunchy, tangy coleslaw create a delicious contrast that everyone will love.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of the ham complements the tanginess of the coleslaw beautifully. This combo is always a crowd-pleaser!
- Stuffing: Serve your coleslaw alongside a hearty stuffing or dressing. The crunch of the coleslaw adds a delightful texture to the rich, savory stuffing.
- Mashed Potatoes: A scoop of creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy pairs perfectly with the fresh crunch of coleslaw. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Green Bean Casserole: The classic holiday side adds a warm, comforting element to the meal, while the coleslaw brings in that refreshing crispness.
- Sweet Potatoes: Whether roasted, mashed, or in a casserole, the sweetness of sweet potatoes balances out the tangy coleslaw, creating a harmonious plate.
- Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Fluffy bread rolls are perfect for scooping up coleslaw or gravy, adding to the overall Thanksgiving experience.
- Apple Pie: And of course, don’t forget dessert! A slice of warm apple pie is the sweet ending that ties the entire meal together.
Feel free to mix and match these dishes based on your family favorites. Your *thanksgiving coleslaw* will not only complement each dish but also bring a burst of color and flavor to your holiday table. Enjoy every bite and the wonderful memories you’ll create!
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Thanksgiving Coleslaw: 7 Ways to Elevate Your Feast
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crunchy and tangy coleslaw perfect for your Thanksgiving meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- For added crunch, include sunflower seeds or nuts.
- Can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: thanksgiving coleslaw
