Classic Coleslaw

Classic coleslaw is a crisp, refreshing salad made primarily from finely shredded raw cabbage, often mixed with shredded carrots and tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Its origins are rooted in European cabbage salads, but it became a staple of American cuisine, particularly as a side dish for barbecue, fried chicken, and sandwiches. The dressing typically uses a mayonnaise base, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings like celery seed.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical serving is relatively low in protein but can be moderate in fat due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, with carbohydrates coming mainly from the cabbage and added sugar. It provides a good source of vitamin K and vitamin C from the cabbage, along with some fiber, and a standard ½-cup serving generally ranges from 150 to 300 calories depending on the recipe.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	150 kcal
Protein	1.5 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	350 mg
Vitamin C	20 mg
Vitamin K	40 mcg
Vitamin A	120 mcg RAE
Potassium	250 mg
Folate	30 mcg
Calcium	40 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Magnesium	15 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, coleslaw is a quintessential American picnic and barbecue side, with regional variations ranging from creamy Southern-style to lighter vinegar-based versions. Nutritionally, it's unique for delivering the health benefits of cruciferous vegetables like cabbage in a palatable, familiar format, though its healthiness can vary dramatically based on the dressing's sugar and fat content.