Shockingly Simple Coleslaw
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Forget coleslaw from the deli counter. This Shockingly Simple Coleslaw is a simple side dish recipe you can mix up in minutes! Just grab a store-bought coleslaw mix and add a couple other ingredients you probably have on hand.
I originally made this homemade coleslaw to serve up with my recipe for Tex-Mex Beef Barbecues. I made it again to go with my recipe for Slow Cooked Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork. It works to serve it on the sandwich or on the side. However, this does make an even messier sandwich.

When I originally made this easy coleslaw recipe, I tried it both ways. I did half the sandwich with coleslaw and half the sandwich without.
You can do which ever you like, but I preferred the salad on the side. I did not appreciate the great taste of the coleslaw on the sandwich. All I could truly taste was the BBQ beef.
I like to let the slaw sit in the fridge for 1 hour before serving. I like that shredded cabbage and carrots to be little less crunchy than straight from mixing it. Again either way you like it, you can do it.
I also think throwing in a chopped apple before serving would be tasty too. I think it would compliment these flavors well.
Ingredients to Make Shockingly Simple Coleslaw
- COLESLAW MIX
- MAYONNAISE OR MIRACLE WHIP
- SUGAR
- DIJON MUSTARD (I USE HONEY DIJON)
- HONEY

How to Make Shockingly Simple Coleslaw
Begin by adding the coleslaw mix into a large bowl. In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, sugar, mustard and honey. Then, mix this well.
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss until combined. Serve immediately for a crunchy slaw, or refrigerate for 1 hour for a more tender slaw. I told you it was shockingly simple!

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw?
No, you don’t have to use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw. You can make your own cabbage mixture. Shred fresh green cabbage yourself using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor.
Adding some purple cabbage, shredded carrots or other vegetables is also an option to customize the coleslaw to your liking. You will need about 7 cups.
Is there a way to make this simple coleslaw recipe lighter?
Yes, you can make the coleslaw lighter by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or by using a reduced-fat mayonnaise.
How do I prevent the coleslaw from becoming watery?
To prevent the coleslaw from becoming watery, you can salt the coleslaw mix and let it sit for about an hour. Then, rinse and drain the cabbage before mixing it with the dressing.
What can I serve this classic coleslaw recipe with?
This coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, fried chicken, or grilled meats.
Is this coleslaw recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this coleslaw recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients, including the mayonnaise and mustard, are gluten-free.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Mouthwatering Easy Pineapple Coleslaw
- Southern Slaw Dogs
- Apple Slaw
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Ranch Slaw

Shockingly Simple Coleslaw
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 16 oz bag pre-shredded coleslaw mix
- ½ cup mayonnaise or miracle whip I’m a mayo girl
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard I used honey Dijon
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Place coleslaw mix into a large bowl. Place mayonnaise, sugar, mustard, and honey into a small bowl and mix.
- Pour and stir into cabbage until combined. Serve immediately for a crunchy slaw or refrigerate for 1 hour for a more tender slaw.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from Picky Palate.
This is the origial photo from this post when it was first published in June 2009.