Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe – Creamy, Tangy & Easy to Make
Summer Bliss Coleslaw
A refreshingly creamy and tangy coleslaw starring crisp cabbage and sweet carrots—your go-to side for summer barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.
Ingredients
Method
- Toss the shredded cabbage with 1/2 teaspoon salt in a colander; let it drain for 20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture for extra crunch. Rinse briefly and pat dry.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, pepper, and celery seed until smooth.
- Combine cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight) to let flavors meld. Stir again before serving.
Summer Bliss Coleslaw
This dreamy coleslaw blends crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and a tangy-sweet dressing—every bite is pure summer in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love It
- Super Crunchy: Salting then rinsing the cabbage locks in that coveted crisp bite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep fully a day ahead to deepen the flavor.
- Diet-Flexible: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Ingredients
- 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1/3 cup shredded carrots
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus an extra 1/2 teaspoon for salting cabbage)
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of celery seed (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Draw out moisture:
Toss cabbage with 1/2 tsp kosher salt in a colander. Let sit 20 minutes, rinse, then pat dry for extra crunch.
-
Whisk the dressing:
In a bowl, whisk mayo, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, pepper, and celery seed until silky.
-
Combine & toss:
Place cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and gently fold until every shred is coated.
-
Chill & serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Give it one more toss just before plating.
Pro Tips for Perfect Slaw
- Prevent sogginess: Always rinse salted cabbage well to remove excess salt.
- Extra tang: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or add a pinch of mustard powder to the dressing.
- Overnight rest: The flavors deepen when chilled longer—ideal if you’re prepping ahead.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Drain any excess liquid before serving.
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