1 side Coleslaw (Side) is a delicious and healthy choice for a side dish. At just 120 calories per serving, it's a perfect addition to any meal.

Not only is coleslaw low in calories, but it's also packed with nutrients. A typical coleslaw contains cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C and K, while carrots are loaded with vitamin A.

In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about coleslaw, from its history to different variations and serving suggestions.

Nutritional information

1 serving of coleslaw (100g) typically contains 81 calories, 6.7g of fat, 2.4g of protein, and 4.4g of carbs. Coleslaw is also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. However, store-bought coleslaw may contain high amounts of added sugar and preservatives.

Ingredients

The most common ingredients used in coleslaw are shredded cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise. Some recipes may also include onions, apples, celery, or raisins. To make coleslaw, the cabbage and carrots are mixed with a creamy dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Preparation methods

To make coleslaw, start by shredding the cabbage and carrots using a grater or food processor. Then, mix the vegetables in a large bowl with the dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt. If you want to make a healthier version of coleslaw, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli, kale, or red cabbage.

Health benefits

Coleslaw is a healthy side dish that can benefit your health in many ways. The cabbage and carrots in coleslaw are rich in antioxidants, which can help prevent cancer and other diseases. Cabbage is also a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease. The mayonnaise used in coleslaw can provide healthy fats and vitamin E.

Flavor profile

Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish with a slightly sweet and tangy taste. The cabbage and carrots provide a crisp texture, while the dressing adds creaminess and a hint of acidity. Coleslaw can be customized to your taste by adding different ingredients like apples, nuts, or spices. You can also adjust the amount of dressing to make it more or less creamy.

Serving suggestions

Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can be served with many different meals. It's a classic accompaniment to BBQ meats, burgers, and sandwiches. Coleslaw can also be used in wraps, tacos, or salads to add crunch and flavor. You can even serve coleslaw as a dip with chips or veggies.

History

Coleslaw has its roots in Europe, where it was made with sour cream and vinegar instead of mayonnaise. The name 'coleslaw' comes from the Dutch word 'koolsla', which means 'cabbage salad'. In the US, coleslaw became popular in the 19th century as a side dish for fried chicken and seafood. Today, coleslaw is a staple at BBQs, picnics, and fast food restaurants around the world.

Coleslaw variations

There are many variations of coleslaw, depending on the region and the cook's preference. Some popular variations include:

• Vinegar-based coleslaw - made with vinegar, salt, and sugar instead of mayonnaise.
• Spicy coleslaw - made with hot peppers, chili powder, or hot sauce.
• Fruit coleslaw - made with apples, pineapples, or raisins.

Coleslaw accompaniments

Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can be paired with many different foods. Some popular accompaniments for coleslaw include:

• BBQ meats - such as ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
• Seafood - such as fried shrimp, fish and chips, or crab cakes.
• Burgers and sandwiches - such as a classic cheeseburger or pulled pork sandwich.

DIY coleslaw

If you're hosting a party or BBQ, you can create a DIY coleslaw bar for your guests. Set out different toppings and dressings, and let your guests customize their own coleslaw. Some topping and dressing ideas for a DIY coleslaw bar are:

• Toppings - shredded cheese, bacon bits, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or sliced jalapenos.
• Dressings - BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or hot sauce.