15-Minute Creamy Country Coleslaw with Celery Seed
A classic creamy coleslaw featuring shredded cabbage and carrots tossed with diced peppers and onions in a tangy Miracle Whip dressing brightened by vinegar and buttermilk. The celery seed adds subtle earthiness while sugar balances acidity. Serve alongside barbecue, fried chicken, or sandwiches. Victory's version relies on mayonnaise-based dressing rather than vinegar-forward slaw, making it rich and cooling for warm weather meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Shred cabbage into thin pieces.
- 2
Shred carrot.
- 3
Dice onion finely.
- 4
Dice green pepper finely.
- 5
Combine shredded cabbage, carrot, diced onion, and pepper in a large bowl.
- 6
In a medium bowl, whisk together celery seed, sugar, salt, salad oil, vinegar, Miracle Whip, and buttermilk until smooth.
- 7
Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- 8
Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Tips
Chill bowl and ingredients before mixing for crispest texture and to help vegetables retain their bite.
For tangier slaw, increase vinegar by 1-2 tablespoons; reduce sugar slightly if added acidity feels sharp.
Prepare 4-6 hours ahead for best flavor development; slaw stays fresh refrigerated up to 3 days.
Good to Know
Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days. Slaw will soften slightly as vegetables release liquid.
Prepare through step 7 up to 4 hours ahead. Dress just before serving to maintain crispness, or dress 2-3 hours ahead if softer texture preferred.
Serve chilled alongside barbecue, fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or grilled burgers. Also pairs well with fish fry or picnic spreads.
Common Mistakes
Skip chilling to avoid limp vegetables; cold ingredients and bowl keep slaw crisp.
Use warm dressing components to avoid soggy cabbage; ensure all ingredients are room temperature or cool.
Dice vegetables unevenly to avoid some pieces wilting faster than others; uniform size ensures even texture.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this slaw ahead for a picnic?
Yes, prepare the dressed slaw 2-3 hours before serving. For longer storage, dress vegetables just before departing or pack dressing separately and combine on-site to keep it crunchier. It stays fresh refrigerated up to 3 days.
What if I don't have Miracle Whip?
Use mayonnaise in equal amounts; the slaw will be less tangy. Add an extra teaspoon of vinegar to brighten it. Mayo-based slaw is creamier than vinegar-forward styles, so adjust seasoning to taste.
Can I freeze coleslaw?
Freezing is not recommended. The cabbage becomes mushy upon thawing as ice crystals rupture cell walls. Refrigerate instead for up to 3 days in an airtight container for best texture.