Pickled Slaw

Pickled Slaw is a delightful twist on classic coleslaw, combining crunchy cabbage, vibrant carrots, and zesty dill pickles in a creamy dressing. This dish is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for any meal. Its unique flavor profile and crunchy texture make Pickled Slaw stand out, ensuring it will be a hit at your next gathering.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For the Dressing
• For the Crunch
• How to Make Pickled Slaw
• Step 1: Combine Vegetables
• Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 3: Mix It All Together
• Step 4: Chill Before Serving
• Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
• How to Serve Pickled Slaw
• As a Sandwich Topping
• As a Side Salad
• On Tacos
• As an Appetizer
• How to Perfect Pickled Slaw
• Best Side Dishes for Pickled Slaw
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pickled Slaw
• Reheating Pickled Slaw
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Pickled Slaw?
• What type of vinegar should I use for Pickled Slaw?
• How long does Pickled Slaw stay fresh?
• Is Pickled Slaw healthy?
• Can I use different types of cabbage?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Pickled Slaw comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it an easy addition to any meal.
• Flavorful and Tangy: The combination of mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and dill pickle juice creates a deliciously tangy dressing that elevates the slaw.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers, this slaw fits seamlessly into any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lower in calories, this slaw is a guilt-free choice.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare Pickled Slaw in advance. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Pickled Slaw recipe, ensure you have the right tools handy. These essentials will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining large quantities of ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing by thoroughly mixing all components together.

Ingredients

Recipe for deli-style Pickle Slaw – coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, dill pickles and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues.

For the Base

• 2 pounds green cabbage, cored and shredded
• 1/2 cup peeled and shredded carrots

For the Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pinch cayenne pepper

For the Crunch

• 1/3 cup diced dill pickles

How to Make Pickled Slaw

Step 1: Combine Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots. Mix them well to ensure an even distribution.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Rice vinegar
3. Sugar
4. Dill pickle juice
5. Salt
6. Cayenne pepper

Ensure everything is well blended before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Add in the diced dill pickles as well. Stir and toss until all of the cabbage is evenly coated with dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your slaw to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Stir occasionally if possible to help blend flavors.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Just before serving, give it a good stir to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl. Serve cold for optimal flavor!

Enjoy your homemade Pickled Slaw as a refreshing side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Pickled Slaw

Pickled Slaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Its tangy flavor and crunchy texture make it a great addition to various occasions, from casual picnics to festive barbecues.

As a Sandwich Topping

• Enhance Burgers: Add a generous scoop of Pickled Slaw to your burgers for an extra crunch and zing.
• Perfect for Pulled Pork: Use it as a topping on pulled pork sandwiches for a classic Southern touch.

As a Side Salad

• With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a refreshing contrast.
• Picnic Favorite: Include Pickled Slaw in your picnic basket for an easy, tasty side that everyone will love.

On Tacos

• Crispy Taco Filling: Top your tacos with Pickled Slaw instead of traditional toppings for an exciting twist.
• Fish Tacos Delight: Pair it with fish tacos for a bright and zesty flavor that complements the fish perfectly.

As an Appetizer

• Serve in Small Bowls: Offer small portions of Pickled Slaw in bowls as a crunchy appetizer at gatherings.
• Accompanying Dips: Enjoy it alongside dips like hummus or guacamole for an unexpected pairing.

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How to Perfect Pickled Slaw

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Pickled Slaw, follow these simple tips that enhance the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cabbage and carrots to ensure maximum crunchiness.
• Chill Properly: Allow the slaw to chill for at least 2 hours; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sweetness by adding more sugar or balancing with additional vinegar according to your preference.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding ingredients like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color.
• Serve Cold: This dish is best served cold, so keep it chilled until serving time.
• Make Ahead: Prepare your slaw a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Pickled Slaw

Pairing sides with your Pickled Slaw can elevate any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts complement the tangy slaw perfectly.
2. BBQ Ribs: The smoky flavors of BBQ ribs work wonderfully with the refreshing crunch of slaw.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful balance to the acidity of Pickled Slaw.
4. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad offers creaminess that contrasts nicely with the crisp slaw.
5. Baked Beans: The hearty nature of baked beans pairs well with the lightness of Pickled Slaw.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad adds richness while letting the slaw shine through as a refreshing side.
7. Fried Fish: Crispy fried fish benefits from the coolness of Pickled Slaw on top or beside it.
8. Grilled Veggies: Seasoned grilled vegetables provide great texture and flavor alongside your slaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pickled Slaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using fresh vegetables: Using wilted or old cabbage and carrots can lead to a soggy slaw. Always opt for fresh, crisp vegetables for the best results.
• Skipping the chilling time: Rushing to serve the slaw without allowing it to chill will prevent the flavors from melding. Aim for at least two hours in the fridge before serving.
• Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can make the slaw overly soggy. Start with less dressing and gradually add more if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: A bland slaw can be uninviting. Make sure to taste and adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar levels based on your preference.
• Not stirring before serving: The dressing may settle at the bottom. Always stir your slaw just before serving to evenly distribute the flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pickled Slaw in an airtight container.
• It can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pickled Slaw

• Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the vegetables.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months but expect changes in quality.

Reheating Pickled Slaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place slaw in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer slaw into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Pickled Slaw, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I customize my Pickled Slaw?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers or red onions for added crunch and flavor.

What type of vinegar should I use for Pickled Slaw?

Rice vinegar works well due to its mild flavor, but you can also try apple cider vinegar for a different taste.

How long does Pickled Slaw stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to one week.

Is Pickled Slaw healthy?

Yes! It includes fresh vegetables and can be lower in calories compared to other creamy salads if made with less mayonnaise.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with red cabbage or savoy cabbage for different colors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Pickled Slaw is a delightful side dish that adds crunch and tanginess to any meal. Its versatility makes it perfect for barbecues, picnics, or even as a topping on sandwiches. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!