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–+ servings
Creamy Cabbage
This creamy cabbage slaw recipe is a classic homemade dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family dinners. The recipe features finely shredded cabbage tossed with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and balsamic or apple vinegar. Light, crisp, and creamy, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches. It’s simple to prepare and uses fresh, readily available ingredients, making it an ideal go-to side dish for any casual meal or holiday spread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 115 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Slaw:

  • 1 ¾ qt cabbage (shredded)

For the Dressing (makes ~1 cup):

  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ⅓ cup sugar (may add a bit less if desired)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar ( or apple cider vinegar)

Optional:

  • small splash of cold water to thin dressing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  • Shred or finely slice the cabbage and place it in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and vinegar until smooth.
  • Add a splash of cold water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 3: Combine & Chill

  • Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and toss until evenly coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve

  • Stir before serving and enjoy chilled as a side dish.

Tips

  • Chill the salad for at least 1 hour for best flavor and texture.
  • Add shredded carrots or thin-sliced onion for extra color and bite.
  • If the cabbage releases too much liquid, drain lightly before adding dressing.
  • The handwritten note suggests sugar “maybe too much”, start with less and adjust to taste.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Use apple cider vinegar or balsamic as written; apple cider vinegar gives a more classic coleslaw flavor.
  • Add celery seed or poppy seed for a traditional deli-style twist.
  • Keep dressing separate until serving to maintain crunch if preparing ahead.
  • Works well with green or red cabbage, or a mix for color.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 135mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 90IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword American side dish, cabbage, coleslaw, creamy dressing, crunchy cabbage, easy salad, holiday side, potluck salad
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