Pickled Slaw

Pickled Slaw is a delightful twist on traditional coleslaw, combining crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and zesty dill pickles in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This dish shines at picnics and barbecues, offering a refreshing side that complements any meal. Its unique flavor profile and vibrant texture make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or casual dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Pickled Slaw

This Pickled Slaw stands out for many reasons.

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious slaw in no time.
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of dill pickles provides a tangy surprise that elevates the classic coleslaw experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a topping on sandwiches and tacos.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This slaw tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Pickled Slaw, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures all dressing components are well-blended for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Recipe for deli-style Pickle Slaw – coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, dill pickles and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues.

Fresh Vegetables

• 2 pounds green cabbage, cored and shredded
• 1/2 cup peeled and shredded carrots

Creamy Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pinch cayenne pepper

Tangy Additions

• 1/3 cup diced dill pickles

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How to Make Pickled Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Combine the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl. This forms the base of your Pickled Slaw.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, dill pickle juice, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
1. Add the diced dill pickles.
2. Stir and toss until all of the cabbage is evenly coated with dressing.

Step 4: Chill the Slaw

Place coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. Stir occasionally to keep the flavors well mixed.

Step 5: Serve Cold

Just before serving:
1. Stir again to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.
2. Serve cold and enjoy your delicious Pickled Slaw!

How to Serve Pickled Slaw

Pickled slaw is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. It’s crunchy, tangy, and pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of your pickled slaw.

As a Sandwich Topping

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Add a layer of pickled slaw to your pulled pork for added crunch and flavor.
• Fish Tacos: Use pickled slaw as a fresh topping on fish tacos for a delightful crunch.

With Grilled Meats

• Barbecue Ribs: Serve pickled slaw alongside barbecue ribs for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat.
• Grilled Chicken: A scoop of pickled slaw makes grilled chicken plates more vibrant and tasty.

As a Standalone Salad

• Light Lunch Option: Enjoy pickled slaw on its own as a refreshing light lunch, perfect for warm days.
• Picnic Essential: Pack it into your picnic basket for an easy-to-eat side dish that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Pickled Slaw

Creating the ideal pickled slaw requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your slaw is always spot-on.

• Bold Cabbage Choice: Choose fresh, crisp green cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
• Crunchy Carrots: Use freshly peeled and shredded carrots to add sweetness and color to your slaw.
• Balanced Dressing: Adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar in the dressing based on your taste preferences for perfect balance.
• Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate the slaw for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Stir Before Serving: Always give it a good stir just before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly throughout.

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Best Side Dishes for Pickled Slaw

Pickled slaw is not only delicious but also pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider when serving this delightful salad.

1. Baked Beans: A classic BBQ side that complements the tangy flavors of pickled slaw perfectly.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a nice contrast to the acidity in your pickled slaw.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances out the crunchiness of the slaw, making it an excellent duo.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn enhances the overall flavor profile when enjoyed with pickled slaw.
5. Coleslaw Variations: Pair with traditional coleslaw for different textures and flavors on your plate.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad adds richness that complements the brightness of pickled slaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pickled Slaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your slaw turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the resting time: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to a bland flavor. Allow your slaw to chill for at least 2 hours for the best taste.
• Overdressing the slaw: Using too much dressing can make the slaw soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed after it has chilled.
• Not cutting ingredients uniformly: Unevenly chopped cabbage and carrots can result in inconsistent textures. Aim for similar sizes for a more enjoyable crunch.
• Using low-quality mayonnaise: A poor-quality mayo can affect the overall flavor of your Pickled Slaw. Choose a good brand or make your own for a tastier result.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor, so don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings as you go. A pinch of salt can enhance flavors significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pickled Slaw in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will remain fresh for up to 5 days, but the texture may soften over time.

Freezing Instructions

• Freezing is not recommended for this slaw as it may lose its crunch once thawed.
• If you must freeze, use freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the slaw covered for about 10-15 minutes. This method is not typically suggested, as Pickled Slaw is best served cold.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds until warm, stirring in between. Be cautious; overheating can change the texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Again, this is not recommended as it’s best enjoyed chilled.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pickled Slaw?

Yes! You can add ingredients like red cabbage, bell peppers, or even apples for sweetness to tailor your Pickled Slaw to your liking.

How long does Pickled Slaw last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Pickled Slaw will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Is Pickled Slaw healthy?

Pickled Slaw can be a healthy addition to meals since it includes vegetables like cabbage and carrots, providing essential nutrients and fiber.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative, and you will have a delicious vegan version of Pickled Slaw.

Final Thoughts

This Pickled Slaw recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at picnics or barbecues, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences!