If you're looking for a tasty and healthy side dish, you can't go wrong with 1 serving (128 g) coleslaw. In each serving, you'll find around 156 calories. But there's more to this dish than just its calorie count. Let's take a closer look at what makes coleslaw such a great addition to any meal.
Coleslaw is typically made with shredded cabbage and carrots, and it's often dressed with a mixture of mayonnaise and vinegar. This means that coleslaw is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Plus, if you opt for a homemade coleslaw recipe, you can control the ingredients and adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes.
In this article, we'll explore some delicious variations of coleslaw and offer tips for serving and storing this classic side dish.
Calories in Coleslaw
As mentioned earlier, a 1 serving (128 g) coleslaw contains around 156 calories. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to remember that coleslaw is a vegetable-based dish, which means it's packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can make coleslaw even healthier by using a lighter dressing or swapping out the mayonnaise for a yogurt-based dressing. You can also add more veggies like broccoli or cauliflower to increase the fiber content and make it more filling.
Coleslaw Ingredients
The basic ingredients for coleslaw are cabbage and carrots, but there are many variations on this classic dish. Some recipes include other veggies like broccoli or cauliflower, while others add fruits like apples or raisins for a sweeter flavor. The dressing for coleslaw is typically made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar, but you can also use a yogurt-based dressing or a vinaigrette for a healthier option. Spices like celery seed or mustard can also be added for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a nutritious dish that offers plenty of health benefits. The cabbage and carrots in coleslaw are both high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and aid in digestion. Cabbage is also a good source of vitamin C and K, while carrots provide vitamin A. The mayonnaise in traditional coleslaw dressing is high in fat and calories, but you can make a healthier version by using a yogurt-based dressing or a vinaigrette. By doing so, you'll be getting all the benefits of coleslaw without the extra calories.
Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Making coleslaw is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here's a basic recipe to get you started: - 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded - 1 carrot, shredded
Variations of Coleslaw
There are many variations of coleslaw depending on the region and personal preference. Here are a few popular ones: - Southern coleslaw: Made with a mayonnaise-based dressing and sometimes includes buttermilk or sour cream. - Vinegar coleslaw: Made with a vinegar-based dressing and typically includes sugar and spices like celery seed.
Coleslaw Dressing Options
The dressing is a key component of coleslaw and can make all the difference in flavor. Here are a few dressing options to consider: - Classic coleslaw dressing: Made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar. - Yogurt-based dressing: Made with plain yogurt, white wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Coleslaw Serving Suggestions
Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas: - As a side dish for grilled meat or fish - In a sandwich or wrap
Different Types of Coleslaw
Depending on where you're from, coleslaw can take on many different forms. Here are a few examples: - German coleslaw: Made with sour cream or yogurt and includes bacon and caraway seeds. - Asian coleslaw: Made with sesame oil and rice vinegar, and includes cabbage, carrots, and sometimes edamame or snow peas.
Coleslaw Side Dish Pairings
Coleslaw pairs well with many dishes, especially those that are grilled or barbecued. Here are a few ideas: - Pulled pork - Grilled chicken
Coleslaw Storage Tips
Coleslaw is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some tips for storing it: - Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container - Eat it within 3-4 days
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Coleslaw
1. What is coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a side dish made with shredded cabbage and usually mixed with carrots and a dressing. It can be creamy or vinegar-based, sweet or tangy, and can be customized with various ingredients such as apples, raisins or jalapeño.
2. Is coleslaw healthy?
Coleslaw can be a healthy side dish if made with fresh and nutritious ingredients. Cabbage and carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins and minerals. However, the dressing can affect its nutritional value, as some recipes contain high amounts of sugar, fat or sodium. Choosing a lighter dressing or making your own is a good tip to make coleslaw healthier.
3. What can I serve coleslaw with?
Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of main courses, such as barbecue, burgers, seafood or sandwiches. It can be an alternative to French fries, chips or baked potatoes, and can also be enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
4. How long can coleslaw last in the fridge?
Coleslaw can last up to five days in the fridge, if stored in an airtight container. However, the dressing can make it soggy over time, so it's recommended to add it just before serving. If you're making a big batch, you can keep the dressing separately and add it as needed.
5. Is coleslaw a vegan or gluten-free dish?
Coleslaw can be a vegan-friendly side dish if made without dairy or animal-derived ingredients, such as mayonnaise. A vegan coleslaw can be made with a tahini or avocado-based dressing, for example. As for gluten-free, coleslaw is naturally gluten-free, but some brands or recipes may add ingredients that contain gluten, such as wheat-based thickeners or malt vinegar.