Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with everything from burgers to BBQs. However, the standard coleslaw recipe can be taken to new heights with a few gourmet touches, creating a dish that’s as sophisticated as it is delicious. Gourmet Coleslaw takes the familiar mix of cabbage and carrots and adds a fresh, creative spin with unique ingredients and a flavorful dressing that elevates it into something truly special.
At the heart of gourmet coleslaw is its crisp, fresh vegetables. The combination of finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and sometimes even kale or Brussels sprouts offers a satisfying crunch that forms the perfect base for the dish. These vegetables provide both texture and a neutral canvas to complement the dressing, which is where the magic happens. Unlike traditional slaw, which typically uses a simple mayonnaise-based dressing, gourmet coleslaw often features a tangy, slightly sweet dressing made from ingredients like Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs.
The dressing is key to giving the coleslaw a more complex flavor profile. A hint of Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard adds a zesty, sharp bite, while a touch of honey or maple syrup balances the acidity with natural sweetness. For an extra kick, some recipes incorporate ingredients like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or even a splash of hot sauce to enhance the tanginess and bring a refreshing brightness to the dish.
What truly makes gourmet coleslaw stand out is the addition of unique elements like roasted nuts, dried fruits, or fresh herbs. Crushed pecans, walnuts, or almonds provide a nutty crunch, while dried cranberries, raisins, or golden apples introduce a subtle sweetness that contrasts with the tangy dressing. Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil can also be added for an aromatic touch, giving the dish a pop of color and flavor.
Gourmet coleslaw is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for all kinds of meals. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, fish tacos, or a vegetarian sandwich, it brings a refreshing balance to any dish. It’s also a great addition to picnics, BBQs, or potlucks, where its vibrant colors and bold flavors are sure to impress.
This elevated version of coleslaw isn’t just a side dish, it’s an opportunity to transform a classic into something extraordinary. With its fresh ingredients, balanced dressing, and creative additions, gourmet coleslaw is the perfect way to refresh a traditional favorite. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a go-to for special occasions, casual gatherings, or any meal that needs a burst of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 head cabbage large
- 1 green bell pepper large
- 3 carrots medium
- 1/3 jar Kroger Old Fashioned Bread & Butter Pickles
- 1 cup honey
- 2 cups Duke’s mayonnaise
Instructions
- Chop all veggies using a food processor with a blade that looks like it has wings.
- Add an ounce of pickle juice.
- Stir well.
- Store in the fridge.
Nutrition
I don’t know about adding honey to coleslaw… Seems weird. I usually just stick to the basics. Anyone else feel this way?
I thought coleslaw was supposed to be made with vinegar? This honey thing is weird.
Isn’t Duke’s just mayo? Why add so much? It gets all gloppy eww. I’ll stick to my grandma’s recipe.
I hear ya! Duke’s is rich, but it makes it creamy. Maybe try using less? Grandma’s recipes always have a special touch!
Well, my family loved it. But my husband said it smells like a jar of pickles… haha! Whatever, it was a hit at the BBQ!
Who knew making coleslaw could be this simple! I might make it for my next BBQ.
I tried this recipe, and it was just okay. Too much mayo for my taste, next time I’ll use less. But I love pickles, so that part was good!
meh, it was ok. I prefer mine with raisins or apples. More flavor that way.
Nice recipe but I used Miracle Whip instead of Duke’s. Hope that’s okay? Still tasted good.
Miracle Whip?! That’s a bold choice! But hey, if it tasted good, who cares, right? 😊
I dunno, man. Miracle Whip ain’t the same as Duke’s. It could ruin the flavor.
Did I miss the part where you put salt? I feel like it needs more flavor, what do you think?
This is the best coleslaw I have ever made! The honey adds such a unique sweetness! Definitely a keeper.
I don’t know about putting honey in coleslaw. Sounds weird to me. Just stick with the traditional vinegar.
I actually love the idea of honey in coleslaw! It adds a nice sweetness that balances the tang. Give it a shot before knocking it!
Nah, honey don’t belong in coleslaw, it’s supposed to be tangy! Keep it simple with vinegar, that’s how my grandma made it.
This coldslaw recipe is amazing! The honey adds a sweet twist that I didn’t expect. Definitely making it again for the picnic!
I tried this too! The honey really makes a difference. Great for summer gatherings!
Easy and delicious! But can we talk about jarred pickles? Just not the same as fresh.
I ain’t got time for that, just put some pre-made slaw mix with the mayo and honey haha! 😂
Coleslaw? More like cold slaw! LOL. But honestly, I like it. Very refreshing in summertime!
Haha, love your sense of humor! Coleslaw is definitely a summer staple. I make a batch every week! 🍽️
Ehh, it was alright. My kids wouldn’t eat the veggies, just picked them out. So kinda a fail for me.
it’s coldslaw not coleslaw… but whatever, I guess.
Loved this! I added some apples for a twist and it was sooo good! 🥗
That sounds interesting! I’ve never thought to add apples. Might try it next time! 🍏
Apples? Really? I don’t know if that would work. Sounds kinda weird.
This coleslaw is literally the best thing I’ve ever made! So crunchy and the honey gives it such a nice sweetness. 5 stars!
This coleslaw is a game changer! The honey gives it just the right sweetness. My family loved it!
Easy and delicious! I used spicy pickles instead, and wow!! Also, what’s with the food processor? Just chop it by hand for a rustic feel! 😄
Choppin by hand sounds legit! But that food processor makes it easier for folks like me who can’t chop good. 😅
I totally agree! Spicy pickles give it an awesome twist! But I love using the food processor; it saves so much time!
I don’t know about adding so much honey. Seems too sweet for my taste. Anyone else feel that way?
I totally get that! Honey can be overpowering sometimes. Maybe just half a cup would be enough?
Nah, I think the honey balances it out nicely. Just need to try it once!
I followed the recipe but it ended up too sweet for my taste. Next time, I’ll cut down on the honey.
Yum!! Can’t wait to try this. My wife makes horrible coleslaw, maybe I should give it a shot!
Cabbage is gross. 🥴
I used to think that too, but this slaw is sooo good! 😋
I don’t know about using mayo for coleslaw. My mom always used vinegar. Guess it’s a southern thing?
Vinegar is classic! Mayo? I don’t know… That sounds weird. But, whatever… try it, and see if it tastes good or not.
I used to think mayo was a no-go too, but this recipe changed my mind! It’s actually super creamy and delicious. Maybe give it a shot?
Good recipe but I made too much! Next time I will half it.
Quick and easy recipe! Just how I like it. My husband loved it too! Thanks, Leon!
This slaw is simply amazing! I added some jalapeños for extra kick. Definitely a keeper!
Why do you need a food processor? I just chop with a knife. This is too much fuss for a salad!
Using a food processor makes everything quicker and more even. Chopping by hand takes forever! Just saying…
Sounds yummy, but doesn’t coleslaw usually have some vinegar? Not sure about this version…
I actually think the pickles add a nice sweetness! I love this take on coleslaw. 😋
Love this recipe! Made it for a BBQ and it was gone in minutes! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. Will definitely make again.
I love how simple this is. Made it with my kids, they had a lot of fun chopping. Nice balance of flavors!
Chopping veggies? Sounds boring to me.
That sounds like a great way to bond with your kids! I’ll try it this weekend.
Easy recipe but can we talk about the amount of mayo?! Duke’s is good, but that’s a lot! Next time I will definitely reduce it.
Not for me. Too much pickle juice. Can anyone tell me what Kroger even means?