Coleslaw Dressing

Name: Coleslaw Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon celery seed; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Flavor | Quick Tastes

I've always believed that the key to a great coleslaw lies in its dressing. After experimenting with different combinations of ingredients, I've really honed in on a blend that balances creamy and tangy perfectly. This coleslaw dressing elevates any salad, and I love how simple it is to whip up. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious dressing that brings crunchy veggies to life. It's a must-try if you're looking to add some zing to your meals!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-18T15:30:18.809Z

When I first started making coleslaw, I was taken aback by how much the dressing influenced the entire dish. I tried various store-bought options but always felt they lacked the depth I desired. That's when I decided to make my own coleslaw dressing, tweaking and testing until I found the exact flavors that worked for me.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dressing sit for a few minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste. Pair this dressing with fresh cabbage and carrots for a crunchy, satisfying side dish that complements almost any meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to make with pantry staples
Versatile for any salad or as a dipping sauce

      

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this coleslaw dressing is the mayonnaise, which provides a creamy base that mingles beautifully with the tangy apple cider vinegar. This vinegar not only adds acidity but also brings a fruity note that complements the sweetness of the sugar. When choosing mayonnaise, opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor; homemade mayonnaise can also be a great alternative if you’re up for it!

Celery seed is a key ingredient that often goes unnoticed, but its distinct, slightly nutty flavor adds a special depth to the dressing. If you can’t find celery seed, you can use ground celery salt as a substitute, though you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.

Tips for Mixing and Serving

When mixing the ingredients, use a whisk to incorporate air, which creates a light, fluffy texture that's inviting. Aim for a smooth, glossy appearance in the dressing—this indicates that the mayonnaise is well-blended with the vinegar and other seasonings. If the mixture is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or extra vinegar to loosen it up.

This dressing is quite versatile! While it's fantastic in coleslaw, I also love using it as a dipping sauce for veggies or as a spread on sandwiches. If you want to make it a bit more exciting, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or some chopped herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Coleslaw Dressing

Dressing Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth.

Instructions

How to Make Coleslaw Dressing

Mix the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.

Season and Adjust

Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the sweetness or acidity as desired by adding more sugar or vinegar.

Serve

Use the dressing immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's perfect for coleslaw or other salads!

Enjoy your homemade coleslaw dressing!

Pro Tips

For a herby twist, try adding fresh dill or parsley to the dressing. It adds a refreshing dimension to your coleslaw.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this coleslaw dressing is its ability to be made in advance and stored for later use. After preparing the dressing, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It can last up to a week, making it ideal for meal prep. Just give it a good stir before using, as separation may occur.

If you’re planning to use the dressing for a gathering or party, I recommend making it a day ahead. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as it might need a touch more salt or vinegar after sitting.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with this dressing by adding different spices or ingredients. For instance, a pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a delightful smokiness, while chopped jalapeños can add a kick of heat. You could also swap out the apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a more robust flavor profile.

Another variation is to incorporate different sweeteners—honey or maple syrup can be used instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness. Just remember, the sweetness level can vary, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this dressing can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free.

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give you a lighter and tangy version of the dressing.

→ How long will the dressing last in the refrigerator?

It should stay fresh for about a week when stored properly in an airtight container.