This Dijon Cider Coleslaw is the perfect marriage of crunchy vegetables and a tangy, sweet dressing that ties everything together. The purple and green cabbage create a vibrant visual contrast while the shredded carrots add a touch of sweetness, making it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, burgers, or simply serving it as a standalone side, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser that will surely make a statement at your next gathering. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
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1 medium head purple cabbage, shredded
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2 large carrots, peeled and shredded
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1/2 red onion, finely chopped
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3/4 cup Dijon mustard
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1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1/2 cup olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, and red onion. Toss them together until well mixed.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, tossing it until the vegetables are well coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey for sweetness.
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (chill time) Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The standout feature of this Dijon Cider Coleslaw is the dressing. It’s not just any vinaigrette – it’s a unique blend of apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, real maple syrup, and a hint of liquid smoke that gives the coleslaw a slightly smoky flavor. The maple syrup balances the tartness of the vinegar, while the Dijon mustard adds a sharp kick, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
This coleslaw is not only lighter than its mayonnaise counterpart, but it also offers a refreshing contrast to heavier grilled or barbecued dishes. The absence of mayo makes it more suitable for those with dietary restrictions such as vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets, allowing more people to enjoy this classic summer dish.
Perfect for Summer BBQs and More
Dijon Cider Coleslaw is the ideal side dish for barbecues and cookouts, especially when paired with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a topping for sandwiches. It adds an extra burst of flavor without weighing down the palate. Additionally, the crunchy texture of the cabbage and carrots provides a satisfying contrast to the softness of grilled meats.
What’s great about this coleslaw is that it can also be served in many different ways. Use it as a topping for tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or even on top of a fresh grilled chicken burger. It’s a fantastic addition to any meal, and its tangy flavor will cut through the richness of most dishes.
Ingredients That Bring It All Together
To make the Dijon Cider Coleslaw, the key ingredients are simple yet flavorful. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and red onion forms the base, giving the dish its necessary crunch and color. The vinaigrette is where the magic happens: apple cider vinegar provides a fruity tang, while Dijon mustard introduces a bold sharpness. The real maple syrup adds a natural sweetness, and the optional liquid smoke imparts a subtle smoky depth to the overall flavor.
Using fresh, quality ingredients for both the cabbage mix and the dressing is crucial to achieving the best results. You can easily find a pre-made coleslaw mix at the grocery store, or you can make your own by shredding green and purple cabbage and adding a few carrots for extra texture and sweetness.
How to Make the Dijon Cider Coleslaw
Making this coleslaw couldn’t be easier. First, combine the cabbage mix and red onion in a large bowl. Then, whisk together the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl until smooth and well-combined. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly. For the best flavor, let the coleslaw marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving – this allows the dressing to fully absorb into the vegetables.
This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings. However, it’s also one of those dishes that tastes even better after marinating for a while, so it’s ideal for preparing ahead of time. You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days, although it’s best enjoyed on the same day for maximum crunch and freshness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Dijon Cider Coleslaw is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a more tangy coleslaw, increase the amount of Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar. You can also adjust the sweetness level by adding more maple syrup or honey. The addition of liquid smoke is optional, but it’s highly recommended for a smoky flavor that sets this slaw apart from traditional recipes.
For a twist, you can add other ingredients to the coleslaw, such as sliced bell peppers, shredded broccoli, or even apples for a touch of sweetness and crunch. If you’re looking for an even lighter version, you can substitute olive oil with a lower-calorie option like avocado oil or skip the oil altogether for a more vinegar-forward dressing.
Why This Coleslaw Is a Healthier Alternative
Traditional coleslaw recipes often rely on mayonnaise for their creamy texture, which can be heavy and high in calories. By using apple cider vinegar and a small amount of olive oil as the base for the dressing, this Dijon Cider Coleslaw becomes a lighter and healthier alternative. The natural ingredients, such as the mustard and maple syrup, offer complex flavors without adding unnecessary calories or artificial ingredients.
This makes it an excellent option for those on a calorie-conscious diet or anyone looking to make healthier choices without compromising on flavor. Plus, because the coleslaw is vegan and gluten-free, it’s suitable for a wide range of dietary needs, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy it.
Conclusion
Dijon Cider Coleslaw is a modern, healthier take on a classic summer dish. Its tangy, smoky vinaigrette offers a refreshing change from the usual mayo-based coleslaws, and its crunchy texture provides the perfect contrast to richer dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, using it as a topping for sandwiches, or just enjoying it as a side salad, it’s a versatile dish that will quickly become a favorite at any gathering.
The simplicity of the recipe and the ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for busy cooks who want to add a flavorful, crowd-pleasing side to their meal. And with its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, this Dijon Cider Coleslaw is sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.