Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar

Name: Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded; 2 medium carrots, grated; 1 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Highlighted under: Global Tastes | Fusion Food

I love making this Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar because it brings a crisp, tangy flavor to any meal. Growing up, my family always had this dish at summer barbecues and holiday gatherings. The bright crunch from the cabbage and the zesty vinegar dressing make it a refreshing accompaniment to rich foods. Plus, it's incredibly simple to prepare, coming together in just minutes. Whether you serve it with pulled pork or alongside grilled chicken, this coleslaw is a classic that never goes out of style.

Created by

The Tinascookbook Team

Last updated on 2026-02-18T16:18:19.103Z

The first time I made this coleslaw, I followed my grandmother's recipe, which was scrawled on a faded piece of paper. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing struck me with how wonderfully simple yet flavorful it was. I realized that the trick was to let the slaw sit for a bit, allowing the flavors to meld while the cabbage remains crunchy.

As I experimented more, I found that adding a pinch of sugar helped balance the acidity of the vinegar, enhancing the overall taste. It became a staple in my kitchen, proving that sometimes the simplest dishes can be the most satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crisp and refreshing with a tangy dressing
Perfect balance of flavors with a hint of sweetness
An easy, quick side that complements any main dish

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a great coleslaw is the freshness of the ingredients. When choosing your cabbage, look for a medium green cabbage that feels heavy for its size and has crisp, tightly packed leaves. This ensures a satisfying crunch in your final dish. Carrots should be firm and vibrant, as they not only add sweetness but also enhance the texture of the slaw.

Apple cider vinegar plays an essential role in this coleslaw, providing that signature tangy flavor. It's important to choose a quality vinegar, as the depth of flavor can vary widely. The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, giving the dressing a perfectly harmonious profile. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup as substitutes—just adjust the quantity to match your taste.

Preparation and Marination Tips

When preparing your vegetables, ensure that the cabbage is shredded finely; this allows it to absorb the dressing better and enhances the overall texture. I recommend using a sharp knife or mandoline for even, thin shreds. The carrots should be grated using a box grater or a food processor, which makes the process quicker and ensures a consistent size throughout the slaw.

Once the dressing is mixed thoroughly until you achieve a glossy emulsion, pour it over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Give everything a good toss to coat evenly. Allowing the coleslaw to marinate for at least 10 minutes is crucial—it not only softens the cabbage slightly but allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. For best results, let it sit for up to an hour in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful coleslaw!

Ingredients

1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
2 medium carrots, grated
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Mix the ingredients thoroughly for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your coleslaw.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss them together to distribute evenly.

Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil until well combined.

Combine and Marinate

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing them to coat thoroughly. Allow the coleslaw to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy your refreshing coleslaw as a side dish or topped on your favorite sandwiches!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, you can include sliced bell peppers or add a handful of chopped fresh herbs. Adjust the sweetness of the vinegar dressing according to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This Old Fashioned Coleslaw with Vinegar pairs wonderfully with rich and smoky dishes. I often serve it alongside pulled pork sandwiches, as the acidity helps cut through the richness. It's also an excellent side to grilled chicken or ribs. For a fun twist, consider adding crushed pineapple or diced apples for a sweet twist that complements the tangy dressing.

To elevate your serving presentation, consider placing the coleslaw in a decorative bowl and garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds a pop of color and enhances its visual appeal. Additionally, you could serve it on a bed of leafy greens for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Coleslaw is a fantastic make-ahead dish that can save you time during busy meal prep. You can prepare the vegetables and the dressing a day in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. Just remember to combine them a few hours before you plan to serve, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This dish is best consumed fresh within the first couple of days after preparation, as the cabbage will begin to soften and lose its crunch over time.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in the refrigerator. You can enjoy the coleslaw for up to three days, but expect some texture changes as it sits. If you're looking to keep the crunch, consider adding fresh cabbage to the leftovers before serving to refresh it before your next meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make coleslaw a day in advance?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance, but it's best to wait until just before serving to add the dressing to keep the vegetables crunchy.

→ Is there a vegan option for this coleslaw?

Certainly! Simply use a plant-based oil and skip any non-vegan toppings, as this recipe is already dairy-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the coleslaw?

Absolutely! Shredded broccoli, radishes, and even diced apples can give your coleslaw a unique twist.

→ How long can I store the coleslaw?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may soften slightly, but it will still be tasty!