The Ultimate Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw for Summer Cookouts

Coleslaw is the ultimate side dish—cool, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. But this isn’t your average, overly creamy deli-style slaw. This Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw brings a refreshing balance of crisp vegetables, a lightened-up dressing, and just the right zing of vinegar and sweetness. Perfect for pairing with grilled mains, tacos, sandwiches, or as a guilt-free snack straight from the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crisp & Fresh – Packed with shredded cabbage and carrots, it’s a texture lover’s dream.
Light Yet Flavorful – The dressing skips the heavy mayo in favor of a tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette.
Quick to Make – Ready in minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
Great for Gatherings – Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and BBQs because it holds up well.

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or light mayo if preferred)
• 1½ tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp celery seed (optional, but adds classic slaw flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Prep the Veggies:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, carrots, and red onion.

Toss It Together:

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.

Let It Chill:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften slightly.

Serve:

Give it one more toss and serve cold. Garnish with extra celery seed or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 12g
• Sugar: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

Tips for Success

• Shred Fresh – Use a mandoline or food processor for even, crisp shreds.
• Taste Before Serving – The flavor intensifies as it sits, so adjust salt, sweetness, or tang as needed before serving.
• Make It a Meal – Add grilled chicken, beans, or tofu for a protein boost and turn it into a light lunch.
• Store Smart – Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days, making it great for meal prep.

Why This Recipe Works

This version of coleslaw keeps all the bold flavors and satisfying crunch of the original while trimming back the heavy dressing. The result is a vibrant, palate-cleansing side dish that elevates any meal without overpowering it.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, looking for a picnic-friendly dish, or just need a refreshing side to go with your weekday meals, this Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw delivers. It’s light, lively, and easy to love—proof that classic comfort foods can be reimagined to fit a healthier lifestyle without losing their charm.