Pickled Slaw

Pickled Slaw is a refreshing and tangy dish that adds crunch and flavor to any meal. This unique coleslaw, made with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and zesty dill pickles, is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish at family gatherings. Its creamy mayonnaise dressing complements the crunchy veggies while providing a delightful contrast of flavors. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious slaw ready to chill in the fridge.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a barbecue, Pickled Slaw fits right in as a crowd-pleasing side.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of dill pickles and cayenne pepper gives this slaw a unique tang that pairs well with various dishes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh vegetables, this slaw is a nutritious addition to your meal without sacrificing taste.
• Make Ahead Convenience: It can be prepared hours or even a day in advance, making it stress-free for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Pickled Slaw, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. These will make your preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors are mixed well.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables evenly.

Ingredients

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

Cabbage and Carrots

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

Dressing Ingredients

• 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

Pickles

• 1/3 cup diced dill pickles

How to Make Pickled Slaw

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

Combine the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl. This creates a crisp base for your slaw.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

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

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

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

Step 5: Serve Cold

Just before serving, stir again to redistribute any dressing that has settled at the bottom. Enjoy your chilled Pickled Slaw!

How to Serve Pickled Slaw

Pickled slaw is a versatile dish that can enhance any meal. Its tangy flavor pairs well with various foods, making it a perfect addition to your dining table.

As a Sandwich Topping

• Adding pickled slaw to sandwiches provides a crunchy texture and zesty flavor, perfect for pulled pork or turkey sandwiches.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve pickled slaw alongside grilled chicken or ribs for a delightful contrast to the smoky flavors of the meat.

In Tacos

• Use pickled slaw as a fresh topping for fish or veggie tacos, adding an extra layer of crunch and taste.

As a Salad Side

• Pair pickled slaw with your favorite salad for added crunch and a tangy twist that will elevate your meal.

In Wraps

• Include pickled slaw in wraps for a refreshing bite, especially with roasted vegetables or deli meats.

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How to Perfect Pickled Slaw

Creating the perfect pickled slaw involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose fresh ingredients – Fresh cabbage and carrots will give your slaw the best flavor and crunch.
• Let it marinate – Allowing the slaw to sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours enhances the flavors.
• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter slaw, feel free to add more sugar according to your taste.
• Experiment with spices – Adding different spices can give your slaw unique flavors. Consider dill or garlic for an interesting twist.
• Use homemade mayonnaise – For an even creamier texture, try making your own mayonnaise as a base for the dressing.
• Serve chilled – Ensure that the pickled slaw is served cold for maximum freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pickled Slaw

Pickled slaw complements many dishes beautifully. Here are some great side dishes to serve alongside it.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with tangy flavors, balancing out the dish nicely.
2. Baked Beans – The richness of baked beans contrasts well with crunchy pickled slaw.
3. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a comforting side that works well with the acidity of the slaw.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Tossed in olive oil and herbs, grilled veggies add color and healthiness to your meal.
5. Macaroni Salad – A classic side dish that offers creaminess alongside the crispness of pickled slaw.
6. Coleslaw Variations – Try different coleslaw recipes; they can provide varied textures and tastes that complement each other well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pickled Slaw, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the chilling time: Failing to refrigerate the slaw allows flavors to stay dull. Make sure to chill for at least 2 hours.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted cabbage or old pickles can ruin your dish. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Overdressing the slaw: Adding too much dressing can make it soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt or cayenne pepper can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget these essentials for great taste.
• Failing to stir before serving: If you don’t mix before serving, the dressing will settle at the bottom. Give it a good stir just before enjoying.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pickled Slaw in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pickled Slaw

• Freezing is not recommended as it changes the texture of the cabbage.
• If you must freeze it, use airtight containers and consume within 3 months.

Reheating Pickled Slaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slaw in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slaw in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pickled Slaw?

Yes! You can add ingredients like sliced jalapeños or other veggies for extra flavor.

How long does Pickled Slaw last?

Pickled Slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when kept in an airtight container.

Is Pickled Slaw healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories and can be packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables.

What dishes pair well with Pickled Slaw?

Pickled Slaw is perfect alongside barbecue dishes, sandwiches, or grilled meats.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

Yes! You can experiment with red cabbage, Napa cabbage, or even mixed greens for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Pickled Slaw is a delightful side dish that adds crunch and zest to any meal. Its versatility allows for customization based on your tastes. Whether you’re serving it at picnics or barbecues, give this recipe a try and enjoy its tangy goodness!