Old-Fashioned Coleslaw

You know that creamy, tangy, slightly sweet coleslaw they serve in diners next to a grilled cheese or in a basket of fried fish? This is that slaw, only better. It starts with crisp shredded cabbage and a thin confetti of bell peppers and onion, all tossed in a dressing that hits the trifecta: rich from mayonnaise, sharp from vinegar and just a little unexpected, thanks to evaporated milk.

Make this, and you’ll never suffer through a sad plastic tub of store-bought slaw again. It’s cool, crunchy and exactly what you want next to something hot and salty. Let it hang out in the fridge for an hour before digging in; it’s long enough for everything to meld, but not so long that the cabbage loses its edge. Serve it at your next cookout and watch it disappear before the burgers are even off the grill.

Old-Fashioned Coleslaw Ingredients

• Cabbage
• Green pepper
• Sweet red pepper
• Onion
• Mayonnaise
• Sugar
• White wine vinegar
• Evaporated milk
• Salt
• Dill weed
• Paprika
• Pepper

Directions

Step 1: Combine the vegetables

In a bowl, combine the cabbage, peppers and onion.

Step 2: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, evaporated milk, salt, dill, paprika and pepper. Add the dressing to the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least one hour before serving.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Coleslaw

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight food storage container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for three to five days, though it’s best within the first couple of days while the cabbage is still crisp. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Old-Fashioned Coleslaw Tips

Can you use bagged coleslaw mix in this old-fashioned coleslaw recipe?

Yes, you can save time with bagged coleslaw mix. Measure out 2 cups and skip the chopping step.

What can you substitute for evaporated milk in this coleslaw recipe?

To make old-fashioned coleslaw without evaporated milk, swap in whole milk or half-and-half in the same amount.

What goes well with old-fashioned coleslaw?

This coleslaw pairs well with grilled chicken breast, pulled pork sandwiches or fried cod, adding a cool and creamy contrast to hot and savory dishes.