Picnic Coleslaw

Picnic Coleslaw Recipe - Classic American Coleslaw with Cabbage and Bacon

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Picnic coleslaw is a classic side dish that is perfect for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and picnics. This refreshing and crunchy salad is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.

History

Coleslaw has been a popular dish in the United States since the 18th century. The term "coleslaw" comes from the Dutch word "koolsla," which means "cabbage salad." Originally, coleslaw was made with just cabbage and a vinaigrette dressing, but over time, variations with additional ingredients like carrots, onions, and bacon have become popular.

Ingredients

6 cups shredded cabbage
2 cups shredded carrots
8 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
12 green onions, thinly sliced
0.5 cup vinegar
0.33 cup vegetable oil
0.33 cup sugar
1 tsp salt

How to prepare

Combine cabbage, carrots, bacon, and onion.
In a jar, mix vinegar, sugar, and salt. Shake well.
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss.

Variations

Add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Use Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier dressing.
Mix in some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to shred the cabbage and carrots finely for a better texture.

- Crumble the bacon just before adding it to the coleslaw for maximum flavor.

- Toss the coleslaw with the dressing just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve picnic coleslaw alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or hot dogs for a complete picnic meal.

Cooking Techniques

Shred the cabbage and carrots using a food processor or a mandoline slicer for quick and even results.

- Cook the bacon in the oven for a crispy texture without the mess of stovetop frying.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red cabbage or Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage for a different flavor.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar in the dressing for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the coleslaw and dressing separately and combine just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the picnic coleslaw in a large bowl or individual mason jars for a rustic and charming presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair picnic coleslaw with grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, and watermelon for a classic picnic spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss well before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 180 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This picnic coleslaw is a nutritious side dish that is low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Picnic coleslaw is a versatile and delicious side dish that is perfect for outdoor gatherings. With its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and tattered scraps of paper, I stumbled upon a handwritten note with the title "Picnic Coleslaw" scrawled across the top.

Curiosity piqued, I eagerly read through the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a few other simple ingredients. It seemed like a classic coleslaw recipe, but there was something about it that caught my eye.

I remembered my mother telling me stories about how she used to make this coleslaw for family picnics when I was a child. She would spend hours in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and mixing up the dressing, all while regaling us with tales of her own childhood picnics.

I decided to give the recipe a try, following the instructions carefully and adding my own little twist here and there. As I tasted the finished dish, I was transported back to those carefree days of picnicking in the park with my family. The crisp, tangy coleslaw was a hit with everyone who tried it, and I knew I had stumbled upon a special recipe.

Over the years, I have made this Picnic Coleslaw countless times, perfecting it with each batch. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down from one generation to the next. It has become a staple at our family gatherings, always eliciting smiles and nods of approval.

One day, as I was preparing the coleslaw for yet another picnic, my youngest granddaughter came into the kitchen and asked if she could help. I gladly handed her a knife and a cutting board, showing her how to julienne the carrots and shred the cabbage. As we worked side by side, I shared stories of picnics past and the memories that this recipe held for me.

As we sat down to enjoy our picnic, my granddaughter took a bite of the coleslaw and her eyes lit up with delight. "This is the best coleslaw ever, Grandma!" she exclaimed, reaching for a second helping. I smiled, knowing that the tradition of this beloved recipe would live on through her and future generations.

In that moment, I realized that this recipe was more than just a dish to be enjoyed at picnics. It was a connection to my past, a link to my mother and grandmother, and a way to create new memories with my own family. And as long as there are picnics to be had and coleslaw to be made, this special recipe will continue to bring joy and togetherness to all who taste it.