Light & Creamy Coleslaw: A Fresh, Easy Homemade Recipe

French

This lighter coleslaw brings crisp, refreshing flavor with a creamy dressing that uses less mayonnaise but keeps all the indulgence.

Ready in minutes, it’s perfect as a side for everyday meals, BBQs, sandwiches, or family dinners.

How to Make a Light and Flavorful Homemade Coleslaw

I’ll be honest, cabbage has never been my children’s favorite vegetable.

But the moment it becomes coleslaw, everything changes. Suddenly, the bowl is empty, and they’re asking for more.

I think it’s partly because coleslaw is so common here in England; they were introduced to it at school and quickly learned to enjoy its crunchy texture and creamy, lightly tangy dressing.

At home, though, cooking cabbage or cauliflower can be a challenge.

The second I start preparing them, the complaints begin: “Mum, what’s that smell?” or “Are we really eating that?” The aroma alone convinces them they won’t like it.

So I adopted a simple strategy: I make these dishes while they’re at school.

By dinnertime, the resistance fades, and they often enjoy every bite without even realizing which vegetable they were skeptical about in the first place.

Ingredients for a Light and Creamy Coleslaw

• 450 g finely shredded white cabbage : Choose a firm, fresh cabbage, thin slices create the best crunchy, delicate texture.
• 1 to 2 carrots (100–130 g), grated : They add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant contrast to the cabbage.
• 3 tbsp plain yogurt : Perfect for lightening the dressing while keeping it smooth and creamy; whole-milk yogurt gives the best texture.
• 100 g mayonnaise : The classic base of coleslaw dressing, used in a reduced amount for a lighter version.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar : Balances the dressing with a refreshing acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
• 1 tsp mustard : A small touch that adds depth and gives the dressing a gentle kick.
• Salt and pepper, to taste : Adjust at the end to achieve a perfectly balanced seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making homemade Coleslaw

• Finely shred the white cabbage : Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to achieve thin, even slices. The finer the cabbage, the softer and more pleasant the texture will be.
• Grate the carrots : A medium grater keeps them crisp and flavorful. Add them to the cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
• Prepare the dressing : In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until smooth and creamy.
• Combine the vegetables with the dressing : Pour the sauce over the shredded cabbage and carrots. Mix thoroughly so every piece is well coated and the flavors are evenly distributed.
• Chill before serving : Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time softens the cabbage slightly and allows the flavors to develop for a fresher, more delicious coleslaw.

Tips for Making Fresh and Flavorful Coleslaw

– Slice the cabbage very thinly : The thinner the shreds, the better the texture and the more evenly the dressing coats each piece.

– Lightly salt the cabbage before mixing : This softens it just enough without losing crunch, giving a tender yet crisp bite.

– Mix the dressing separately : A smooth, well-combined dressing ensures the flavors spread evenly throughout the salad.

– Chill the coleslaw for at least 2 hours : Resting helps the flavors develop and allows the cabbage to absorb the dressing.

– Add delicate ingredients at the end : Fresh herbs or grated apple stay bright and crisp when added just before serving.

– Adjust sweetness and acidity to taste : A splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can make all the difference in the final balance.

How to Store Your Coleslaw

– Refrigerator – up to 3 days : Store in an airtight container to keep it crisp and to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

– Stir before serving : The dressing may separate slightly, mixing quickly restores the creamy consistency.

– Avoid freezing : Cabbage and carrots become soft and watery once thawed.

– Add the dressing ahead of time for more flavor : Resting overnight allows the vegetables to soften lightly and the flavors to blend beautifully.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Coleslaw

– With grated apple : Adds a juicy, sweet note that perfectly balances the tangy dressing.

– With red cabbage : Brings vibrant color and extra crunch for a more striking salad.

– With finely sliced onion : Adds a subtle sharpness and deeper flavor.

– With fresh herbs : Parsley, chives, or dill add a refreshing, aromatic touch.

– Lighter version : Replace part of the mayonnaise with yogurt or low-fat fromage blanc.

– Vegan version : Use plant-based mayonnaise and soy yogurt for a fully dairy-free option.

– Richer, more indulgent version : Add a spoonful of crème fraîche, increase the mayonnaise, or mix in raisins for extra creaminess and sweetness.

 Other salads to try

• Potato and egg salad
• Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto
• Mexican chopped salad recipe with black beans and corn