This vibrant Vinegar Coleslaw Without Mayo recipe offers a zesty alternative to traditional creamy coleslaw, perfect for those seeking a lighter and tangier option. With a crisp and crunchy mix of shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a flavorful vinegar-based dressing, this dish is bursting with freshness.
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What Type of Vinegar to Use
The choice depends on your personal taste preferences and the flavor profile you are looking to achieve. I alternate between apple cider and white vinegar. Here are some notes:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A popular choice due to its slightly sweet and fruity flavor. It adds a tangy kick to the coleslaw while also imparting a subtle hint of apple flavor.
- White Vinegar: It’s also known as distilled vinegar, is a clear and neutral-tasting vinegar made from fermented grain alcohol. It has a sharp acidity that can help cut through the richness of the ingredients and provide a clean, tart flavor.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar is made from fermented red wine and has a bold and robust flavor with a slightly fruity undertone. It adds depth and pairs well with heartier ingredients like red cabbage and carrots.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar is a dark, syrupy vinegar made from grapes. It has a rich, sweet, and complex flavor with notes of caramel and fruit. It can add a unique and sophisticated twist.
How to Make Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw Without Mayo
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Add vinegar, olive oil, mustard, sweetener or sugar, salt, and pepper to taste to a large bowl or serving dish. Stir to combine.
- Add coleslaw mix and onions to the bowl and stir to combine all of the ingredients.
- Serve warm or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to serve chilled.
How to Adjust the Sweetness
If you find that your coleslaw is not sweet enough, you can gradually add more sugar or sweetener to the dressing. Start with a small amount, such as a teaspoon, and taste the coleslaw before adding more. Stir well to ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved.
Substitutions and Add-ins Ideas
- Honey
- Maple Syrup
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Dill
- Chives
- Bacon
- Celery
- Celery Salt
- Almonds
- Sunflower Kernels
- Pecans
- Blueberries
- Mango
- Cheddar Cheese
- Feta
- Gorgonzola Cheese
Can You Make it Ahead/How to Store
The dish can be stored tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days in the fridge.
How Long Can it Sit Out
It should not sit out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in perishable foods like coleslaw, especially when left at room temperature. To ensure food safety and prevent the risk of foodborne illness, it’s best to the coleslaw promptly after serving or within 2 hours of preparation.
Freezing
The texture and quality of the vegetables will change significantly upon thawing. Freezing and thawing will cause the vegetables to become limp, watery, and mushy, which may result in a less appetizing coleslaw.
Pair With These Recipes
Smoked Pulled Chicken
How to Grill Ribs
How to Grill Chicken Wings
How to Grill the Best Burgers
More Side Dishes
Southern Coleslaw
Soul Food Potato Salad
Potato Salad with Bacon
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Southern Baked Beans
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
If you’re looking for a classic coleslaw recipe, check out my Southern Coleslaw.
Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw (No Mayo)
Want to save this recipe for later?
I’ll email it to you, so you can come back to it later! You will also get our free digital cookbook with 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes and weekly recipes and tips.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vinegar I use apple cider vinegar.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard I use Dijon.
- 2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener I suggest you start with 1 tablespoon. Taste repeatedly and adjust as necessary.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 cups shredded coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Instructions
- Add the vinegar, olive oil, mustard, sweetener or sugar, salt, and pepper to taste to a large bowl or serving dish. Stir to combine.
- Add the coleslaw mix and onions to the bowl and stir to combine all of the ingredients.
- Serve warm or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to serve chilled.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Lindsey
Saturday 1st of February 2025
This is amazing. Made it exactly as written. 1 TBS of sugar. Such a great tangy Cole slaw
staysnatched
Sunday 2nd of February 2025
So glad to hear it!