12 Great Ways to Use Coleslaw

There's no side dish or salad quite as versatile as coleslaw. A tangy cabbage salad can round out an everyday dinner or barbecue and turn it into something extraordinary. Not only is it delicious served alongside other dishes, but coleslaw also makes a delicious topping on all kinds of sandwiches, from fried fish and tacos to hot dogs and burgers. 

Coleslaw is also easy on the budget. All you need is a head of cabbage, some dressing, and some simple seasonings to make a delicious slaw. While you can throw a bowl of tasty coleslaw together in minutes, preparation for the most flavorful slaw is best started at least a few hours in advance. First, toss a head of shredded cabbage with 2 tablespoons of salt. Put it in a colander in the sink and let it stand for an hour or two. Rinse the cabbage and then dry. Toss the cabbage with your favorite dressing and seasonings; serve it right away or—better yet—let it chill for an hour or two before serving.

Slaw doesn't have to be limited to cabbage, though; it can be made with other vegetables as well. Shredded broccoli, radicchio, purple cabbage, and carrots are often used in a slaw. Try using apples, as in the Everything Slaw. Dressings are versatile as well. Use a vinegar-based dressing mixture for a Carolina slaw or make an Asian-style slaw with soy sauce and sesame oil. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination!