If you're looking for a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, cole slaw is a great option. A 1 serving (85 g) of cole slaw contains 171 calories, making it a low-calorie side dish or entree. Let's explore more about cole slaw!

Cole slaw is typically made with shredded cabbage and carrots, but can also include other vegetables like onion, celery, and bell pepper. The dressing for cole slaw can vary, but usually includes a combination of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and/or mustard. This combination of crisp vegetables and tangy dressing makes cole slaw a refreshing addition to any meal.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about cole slaw, including ingredients, preparation tips, nutritional value, health benefits, and recipe variations. Whether you're a fan of classic cole slaw or looking for new ways to enjoy this dish, we've got you covered.

Ingredients of Cole Slaw

The ingredients for cole slaw can vary depending on personal preference, but typically include shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and a dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar and/or mustard. Additional ingredients like onion, celery, and bell pepper can be included to add flavor and crunch. Some variations also include fruits like apples or pineapple to add a sweetness to the dish.

Preparation Time for Cole Slaw

Preparation time for cole slaw can vary depending on whether you're making the dish from scratch or using a pre-made mix. If you're shredding your own cabbage and carrots, this process can take around 15 minutes. Adding the dressing and letting the flavors meld together can take an additional 30 minutes, but the dish is best served after chilling in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

Serving Size of Cole Slaw

A serving size of cole slaw is typically around 85g, which contains about 171 calories. This makes cole slaw a low-calorie side dish or entree that is perfect for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Nutritional Value of Cole Slaw

Cole slaw is a great source of dietary fiber and vitamins C and K. However, the dressing used can sometimes contain high amounts of fat and sugar, so it's important to monitor portion sizes and ingredients.

Health Benefits of Cole Slaw

Due to the high amounts of dietary fiber and low calorie count, cole slaw can be beneficial for weight management and digestive health. The cabbage used in cole slaw is also high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Cole Slaw Variations

There are many ways to vary a cole slaw recipe to fit personal tastes and preferences. Some popular variations include using a vinaigrette dressing instead of mayonnaise-based dressing, adding fruit like pineapple or apple for a sweeter taste, or using different types of cabbage like red or napa cabbage.

Cole Slaw as a Side Dish

Cole slaw is a versatile side dish that can compliment many different types of cuisine. It's often paired with barbeque or fried foods, but can also be served alongside sandwiches or as a simple salad.

Cole Slaw as a Main Dish

While cole slaw is commonly used as a side dish, it can also be used as a main dish. Adding additional protein like chicken or shrimp can turn cole slaw into a filling and nutritious meal.

Cole Slaw Dressings

The dressing for cole slaw can vary depending on personal preference. The classic dressing is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar, but other dressings like vinaigrette or spicy sriracha can be used for a different flavor.

Cole Slaw Accompaniments

Cole slaw is often served with barbeque or fried foods as a refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes. It can also be served alongside sandwiches as a crunchy and flavorful side dish.