Salad: United States – Southern United States (Georgia) – Southern Coleslaw

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 5 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 20 min

Ingredients

- 1 medium head green cabbage, about 2 lb (900 g), cored and finely shredded
- 2 medium carrots, about 6 oz (170 g), peeled and shredded
- 1/4 cup (40 g) finely diced red or sweet onion
- 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) prepared mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tsp (2 g) celery seed
- 1 tsp (6 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) whole milk or buttermilk (to thin dressing, optional)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) sweet pickle relish (optional)

Instructions

Short Description:
A classic Southern creamy coleslaw of finely shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a sweet-tangy mayonnaise dressing brightened with vinegar and mustard. Served cold, it’s a traditional side for barbecues, fried chicken, and picnic plates.

Regional Notes:
This Georgia-style coleslaw uses a mayonnaise-based dressing sweetened with sugar and balanced with apple cider vinegar and a touch of mustard, giving a sweeter, creamier profile than the vinegar-forward slaws found in some other U.S. regions. Small additions like celery seed and optional sweet pickle relish are common in Southern versions to add aroma and rounded sweetness.

1. Place the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and diced onion in a large mixing bowl and toss to combine.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, prepared mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth. If you prefer a slightly thinner dressing, whisk in the milk or buttermilk. Stir in the sweet pickle relish if using.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly until all strands are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, sugar, or vinegar if desired.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably 2–4 hours) to let flavors meld and for the cabbage to soften slightly.
5. Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss and adjust consistency with a splash more milk if too thick. Serve chilled.