
Jessica's Coleslaw
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage
cored and shredded
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon buttermilk
- or to taste½ teaspoon sugar
- or to taste½ teaspoon salt
- or to taste¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Directions
- 1
Combine green cabbage and red cabbage in a medium glass salad bowl, fluffing it with a fork so the strips are separated. Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, buttermilk, sugar, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the cabbage; toss to coat well. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavors mingle, and for up to 2 days. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if desired, before serving chilled.

Jessica's Coleslaw
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 2 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Looking for that quintessential coleslaw to complete your next summer spread or weeknight meal? Culinary historian and cookbook author Jessica B. Harris brings us a classic coleslaw recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser, delivering fresh, vibrant flavors with familiar ingredients.
What sets Jessica's Coleslaw apart is its thoughtful balance of flavors and textures. The inclusion of both crisp green and vibrant red cabbage provides not only a delightful textural contrast but also a beautiful visual appeal. The dressing, a harmonious blend of creamy mayonnaise, zesty cider vinegar, and a touch of tangy buttermilk, creates a vibrant, refreshing profile. A hint of sugar perfectly offsets the vinegar's acidity, resulting in a coleslaw that’s bright without being overly tart, capturing that authentic, home-style taste.
You can expect a coleslaw that's wonderfully fresh, with a satisfying crunch from the finely shredded mixed cabbages. The dressing coats each shred perfectly, offering a creamy yet light mouthfeel that never feels heavy. The flavor profile is a delightful dance between tangy, subtly sweet, and savory, making it incredibly versatile. It’s a side dish that truly enhances any meal, bringing a refreshing element that cuts through richer flavors and cleanses the palate.
Jessica's recipe offers flexibility to suit your palate. The sugar is added 'to taste,' so you can easily adjust the sweetness level to your preference, from a subtle hint to a slightly sweeter slaw that appeals to everyone. For an even tangier kick, a tiny splash more buttermilk or cider vinegar can be incorporated into the dressing. While this classic version focuses on just green and red cabbage, its simple elegance makes it perfect as is.
This versatile coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes. Serve it generously alongside classic fried fish, pile it high on your favorite sandwiches or burgers, or bring it to any picnic or BBQ to round out the spread. Its refreshing qualities make it an ideal counterpoint to rich, grilled foods and hearty fare.







