Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

I am a huge fish-and-chips fan. So when we recently ate at the Aquarium Restaurant in the Opry Mills shopping center in Nashville, Tennessee, that’s what I ordered. And of course I had it with slaw on the side. But not any ordinary slaw. This one had some kick. A spicy kick. And the dressing was different. Deeper. Tastier. After a few tastes it occurred to me that it was a balsamic vinaigrette. “Perfect!” I thought. And as soon as we got home, I made an almost-copycat just-as-great spicy firecracker slaw! Same great kick, same great vinaigrette!

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

A Slaw With A Spicy Kick

My version of spicy firecracker slaw is very close to the one we had at the Aquarium Restaurant. I think theirs was made with a white balsamic vinegar, which I didn’t have. I had to substitute dark, which of course made my slaw darker. I also added a spicy mustard, which I’m not sure the original contained. I think so, so I added it. Either way, theirs is great. And mine is great. So no one is wrong!

Also try my tangy coleslaw.

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

Spicy Firecracker Coleslaw

Yeah, it's spicy!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 207 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Place everything except for the coleslaw mix into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and let cool completely.
  • Add the slaw mix to a medium bowl.
  • Drizzle with the sauce and toss or stir to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 324mgPotassium: 168mgFiber: 2gSugar: 37gVitamin A: 85IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, spicy
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Homestyle Garlic Ranch Salad Dressing

When I first read over the recipe for homestyle garlic ranch salad dressing I thought it all sounded good. Except one thing. Onion? In my ranch dressing? I was hesitant. Was it a typo? Well, I hoped for the best and made it as it was written anyways. And boy, am I ever glad I did. This is easily one of the best dressings I’ve ever had, nevertheless had.

Homestyle Garlic Ranch Salad Dressing

Ranch. Ish.

On the surface this homestyle garlic ranch salad dressing seems like a normal ranch dressing. It has the same consistency. Smells like ranch (yes I smell my dressings). Looks like ranch. But the onion adds a flavor that really makes it different and amazing.

No Rushing.

When I first made this and tasted it I found the onion to be crunchy and almost overpowering. I hoped for the best, putting in the fridge overnight to get happy. And it got happy. And I got happy. The onion softens and flavors the dressing perfectly.

I try to exercise control when I serve dressings for my salads. I use these little dipping cups to help stop me from just pouring it on. Well you can tell from my picture that it would’ve been impossible to put any more in my cup. I wanted more, that’s for sure.

Also try my avocado ranch salad dressing.

Homestyle Garlic Ranch Salad Dressing

Homestyle Garlic Ranch Salad Dressing

Delicious Ranch dressing with a hint of garlic and onion.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 15 minutes
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 374 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Notes

Stir before serving.
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 374kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 2gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 22gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 52mgSodium: 338mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 141IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 42mgIron: 0.4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword creamy, Ranch
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy Mexican Coleslaw

I’m going to tell the truth. It wasn’t my idea to make this easy Mexican coleslaw. My wife came across this recipe and added it to our ‘to-do list’. I was pessimistic about it. What? Beans in a coleslaw? Lime juice? Taco seasoning? “What the heck is this?”, I thought. Well, she went and made it. And I had it. And I loved it! I should’ve known better than to doubt her!

Easy Mexican Coleslaw

Different And Delicious

I ended up loving this easy Mexican coleslaw. A lot. So many different flavors and textures. There’s absolutely nothing boring about this slaw. This is slaw reimagined. At a new level. So, I’m sorry. I was wrong thinking this wouldn’t be a fantastic dish because it was. It feels and tastes so fresh. With a spicy, southwestern twist unlike any other slaw I’ve had or made. This is a great side dish. And it’s great on tacos (especially shrimp and beef!) too!

Lots of… Stuff

Oh I know the ingredient list for this coleslaw is a bit long. But it is still ‘easy’. In fact it’s crazy easy. Considering the reward, it’s more than worth it too. There’s all sorts of like… healthy things in it too. If you’re looking to really shake up your next picnic or family get-together or just a simple grill-out, make this slaw. You’ll be more than happy that you did.

Also try my easy Asian coleslaw.

Easy Mexican Coleslaw

Easy Mexican Coleslaw

A creamy, delicious southwestern-inspired slaw!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning use spicy seasoning for a spicier slaw
  • 14 ounces coleslaw mix with carrots
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1 ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 15.25 ounce black beans rinsed, drained
  • 1 ½ cups corn kernels grilled or roasted, you can use canned instead
  • 1 jalapeno seeded and minced
  • ½ cup cilantro chopped
  • kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice and taco seasoning in a small bowl.
  • In a large bowl, stir the coleslaw mix, bell pepper, tomatoes, beans, corn, jalapeno and cilantro.
  • Add the coleslaw, bell pepper, tomatoes, beans, corn, jalapeno and cilantro to a large bowl.
  • Add the mayonnaise mixture to the slaw and stir until well combined.
  • Add salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

I used two ears of fresh corn. I husked them and placed them on a hot grill, turning often, until they were roasted. I let them cool then cut off the kernels. If you wish to use canned (drained well) or frozen (thawed) corn kernels. If you like your corn roasted, spread them out onto a baking sheet and place under the oven broiler. Keep an eye on them and remove as soon as they start to show a little char.
Stir the slaw before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 10gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 17gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 415mgPotassium: 606mgFiber: 10gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 1271IUVitamin C: 65mgCalcium: 84mgIron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, Mexican
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy Asian Coleslaw

I wanted a good, lighter side dish for my Asian-inspired dinner. Something easy but still delicious. Something that can sit proudly alongside my orange chicken without playing second fiddle. This easy Asian coleslaw was a real winner. Crunchy. Just the right amount of sesame oil. And tons of good fresh stuff.

Easy Asian Coleslaw

Come On, Get Happy

You can serve this easy Asian coleslaw as soon as you add the dressing to it and give it a toss. It’s great right then and there. But it’s also great after sitting in the fridge overnight. I rather prefer it that way as the cabbage and onion soak up that delicious dressing.

I’ve made this coleslaw several times. The crunchy texture and wonderful dressing are a real winner. It’s not only great served as a side dish, but also on top of pulled pork sandwiches!

Also try my copycat Hard Rock Cafe coleslaw.

Easy Asian Coleslaw

Easy Asian Coleslaw

A quick-to-make Asian-inspired slaw that's sure to satisfy!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine Asian
Servings 8
Calories 127 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the coleslaw

  • 1 bunch green onions sliced
  • 32 ounces coleslaw mix
  • 1 small red onion sliced thin

For the dressing

Instructions
 

For the coleslaw

  • Combine all of the coleslaw ingredients in a large bowl.

For the dressing

  • Whisk all of the dressing ingredients together in a medium bowl.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the slaw mix and toss to coat.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 127kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.05gSodium: 718mgPotassium: 261mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 143IUVitamin C: 46mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword Asian, coleslaw
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Dill Ranch Salad Dressing

We recently spent a few days at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort and Spa. We had such a wonderful time there. From driving up, to the room, to the staff, everything was great. One of the biggest highlights was the buffet. Normally when you think buffet you think low quality food, mostly out of cans or boxes. That’s definitely not the case at the DreamMore. Everything was made from scratch and everything was out-of-this-world delicious. It was the buffet from heaven.

One of the things I loved the most at the DreamMore, interestingly enough, was the house-made dill Ranch salad dressing. It was delicious. I could’ve just drank it out of the bottle. I knew instantly that I had to make some when I got home. Now, this version is mighty good, too, but I’m pretty sure that the DreamMore version used fresh herbs (they had a nice herb garden right outside of the restaurant). Even still, this is delicious and a perfect alternative to ‘normal’ Ranch.

Dill Ranch Salad Dressing

The Resting Time Is Not Optional

Do not be tempted to rush the 1 hour rest time that this dill Ranch salad dressing needs. Those dry herbs need time to make the dressing happy. I really love dill so I added a bit more than the recipe calls for. More dill, more better I think.

Also try my honey-mustard Ranch salad dressing.

Dill Ranch Salad Dressing

Dill Ranch Salad Dressing

Do not be tempted to rush the 1 hour rest time.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 142 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a medium bowl.
  • Add more milk (a little at a time) if you want the dressing to be thinner. Don’t go crazy with it, though.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using. Stir again before serving.

Notes

For the best results use full-fat sour cream, mayonnaise and milk, though lighter versions can be substituted you’ll get a thinner less creamy and rich dressing.
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 142kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 1gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 27mgSodium: 72mgPotassium: 58mgFiber: 0.05gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 251IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 43mgIron: 0.1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword dill, Ranch
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Delta Coleslaw

This Delta coleslaw is definitely one of my top 10 favorites. It’s got that classic vinegar sauce but with a slight sweetness. And it has plenty of one of my favorite slaw ingredients: celery seed. Lots of fresh crunchy vegetables make this the perfect side dish, but it’s also fantastic on a pulled pork sandwich. I also enjoy it over grilled hot dogs and even Sloppy Joe sandwiches.

Delta Coleslaw

Dressed For Success

I recommend only dressing enough of this Delta coleslaw that you plan on serving. You want to keep that crunchiness as long as possible. If you’re making this today, to eat tomorrow, don’t add the dressing until tomorrow morning at the earliest. You can store the unused coleslaw and dressing separately, in the fridge, until it’s go-time. I found this technique also works great for keeping any slaw good and fresh throughout the week, perfect for my lunches!

Try some good ole down-home Arkansas slaw, too!

Delta Coleslaw

Delta Coleslaw

A delicious, slightly sweet, vinegar-based slaw with tremendous crunch.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 266 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Combine the slaw mix, bell pepper and onion in a large resealable container.
  • Add salt and pepper and stir.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  • Meanwhile, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard powder, and celery seeds in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil.
  • Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  • Remove from heat and let cool while the slaw mix is in the fridge.
  • Remove slaw mix from fridge.
  • Drizzle with the sauce.
  • Add the oil, green onions, and parsley and toss.
  • Cover and return to refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 266kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 2gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 607mgPotassium: 290mgFiber: 4gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 693IUVitamin C: 64mgCalcium: 66mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw
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Creamy Dill Broccoli Coleslaw

I can’t say I have thought much about using broccoli in a slaw. What, no cabbage? But you know, this creamy dill broccoli coleslaw opened my eyes (and taste buds!) to a totally new way of making slaw. Loaded with dill and with a slight hint of lime, this slaw screams ‘summer’, though you can make it any time of the year.

Creamy Dill Broccoli Coleslaw

Crunchy. And Then Some.

You can substitute ‘normal’ shredded cabbage for the broccoli if you wish. Broccoli slaw tends to stay crunchier longer than cabbage. Cabbage (in a dressing) likes to get soggy in time. If you do decide to make this creamy dill broccoli coleslaw with cabbage instead, sauce only the amount of slaw you plan on serving. That way the leftovers won’t get drenched in sauce and become soggy.

Also try my diner-style coleslaw.

Creamy Dill Broccoli Coleslaw

Creamy Dill Broccoli Coleslaw

A seriously crunchy, creamy slaw!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Get happy time 1 hour
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 188 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups broccoli slaw a small bag
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 lime lime zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ cup dill chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin I used slightly less
  • chile pepper sliced, for garnish (optional)
  • chives sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Place the slaw mix in a medium resealable container.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients except for the garnish.
  • Add to the slaw.
  • Cover and shake gently to coat.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Notes
  • Optionally, serve garnished with sliced pepper and chives.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 188kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 2gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 441mgPotassium: 208mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 358IUVitamin C: 55mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, creamy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Could this be it? Could I have found the perfect Italian dressing? For years I’ve searched. Only to find dressings that were too vinegary. Or too thin. Or too herby. Always ‘too’ something. Well, this copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian salad dressing was perfect for me. Nothing too strong. The perfect consistency. This is the first Italian salad dressing I could actually just drink. This was a real winner for me!

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Give It A Rest

The recipe for this copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian salad dressing calls for you to let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. The dressing needs that time to ‘get happy’. The dry seasonings need to rehydrate. Flavor things. If you rush it you won’t get dressing happiness.

If you have the time, I’d like it rest overnight before serving. Always give it a stir or shake before serving. And if you’ve refrigerated the dressing, set it out on the countertop at least 30 minutes before using. Cold dressings don’t mix as well, specially if they contain oils that solidify in the fridge.

Also try a copycat of the Texas Roadhouse honey French dressing.

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing

Inspired by a recipe from Full Form Today
Incredibly delicious and smooth.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 4 cups
Calories 1201 kcal

Ingredients
  

First Step Ingredients

Second Step Ingredients

Third Step Ingredients

Final Step Ingredients

Instructions
 

First Step

  • Add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, granulated garlic, white and black peppers, onion powder and salt and kosher salt to a medium bowl. Whisk to combine.

Second Step

  • Add the dried oregano, basil, and minced garlic. Whisk to combine. Let mixture rest for 10 minutes.

Third Step

  • Add the mustard and honey. Whisk thoroughly.

Final Step

  • While whisking, slowly drizzle in the oil. Continue whisking until the dressing shows no signs of separating.
  • Taste and add more salt if desired then whisk some more.
  • Serve immediately.
  • Refrigerate any leftovers. Let come to room temperature before serving, shaking or stirring first.

Notes

This recipe makes a HUGE batch of dressing. Feel free to cut it in half. Or, use any leftover dressing as a great marinade for chicken or steak!
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 1201kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 2gFat: 110gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 63gMonounsaturated Fat: 25gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 1181mgPotassium: 172mgFiber: 2gSugar: 52gVitamin A: 38IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword copycat, Italian
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cajun Rainbow Coleslaw

Usually, you’ll find me around the creamy coleslaw at a picnic or get-together. You know the kind. This Cajun rainbow coleslaw isn’t that slaw. But you’ll still find me near it because it disappears off my plate, and fast, just like the traditional stuff. It’s different. And amazingly enough, I like it even though it contains horseradish! Super-crunchy, and packed with flavor, this is not the usual by any stretch of the imagination!

Cajun Rainbow Coleslaw

Cajun-Approved?

Well, I’m not sure if Cajun rainbow coleslaw passes the mustard (so to speak) with the Cajun crowd, but I think it should. Cajun seasoning and good ole Creole mustard team up with in-your-face horseradish and creamy mayo to make a delicious dressing. And the slaw ain’t no slouch, either. Crunchy and packed with bell pepper, it’s the perfect canvas for the kicked up dressing.

My favorite way to eat a good slaw is heaped on top of a smoked pulled pork or brisket sandwich. I love the contrast between the crunchy slaw and the BBQ. You just can’t beat it.

Also try some Buffalo wing coleslaw.

Cajun Rainbow Coleslaw

Cajun Rainbow Coleslaw

Super-crunchy, and packed with flavor.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Coleslaw
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 242 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the dressing

For the slaw

  • 12 ounces broccoli slaw mix
  • 1 small red bell pepper seeded, minced
  • 1 small orange bell pepper seeded, minced
  • 3 green onions chopped

Instructions
 

For the dressing

  • Add the Cajun seasoning, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon and horseradish to a medium bowl. Whisk until well combined.

For the slaw

  • Add the slaw ingredients and stir and toss to coat well.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 242kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 4gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 319mgPotassium: 456mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2108IUVitamin C: 137mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword coleslaw, tangy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Balsamic Smoked Honey Vinaigrette

Funny how things happen sometimes. We were grabbing lunch at one of our local favorite pizza joints not long ago. The lunch special comes with a small side salad. For the dressing my wife went with the balsamic smoked honey vinaigrette. I was intrigued. She was intrigued. Smoked honey? You know, that has to be good. Well, it was. It was “bring me a bottle of that dressing so I can drink it” good. Of course, that means I had to make a version of it when I got home. And it was good. Very good.

Balsamic Smoked Honey Vinaigrette

A Different Kind Of Salad Dressing

This is a great, simple dressing even without the smoked honey. With it, this balsamic smoked honey vinaigrette becomes something a bit different. The smoke flavor isn’t overwhelming, but it’s there. Kinda in the background. It adds to the flavor but doesn’t overwhelm it. Depending on the honey that you use, I recommend adding just a bit at first and tasting to see if you want to add more.

Smoked honey is fun to cook with. I like substituting it for ‘regular’ honey in any recipe that calls for it.

Also try my copycat Portillo’s sweet Italian salad dressing.

Balsamic Smoked Honey Vinaigrette

Balsamic Smoked Honey Vinaigrette

This is a great, simple dressing even.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 254 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Whisk all ingredients until well combined in a small bowl.
  • Cover until ready to use.

Notes

Give the dressing a good shake or stir before serving.
Need ideas for putting together the ultimate salad? Check out my salad inspirations!

Nutrition

Calories: 254kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 0.1gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gSodium: 586mgPotassium: 25mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 3IUCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Keyword balsamic, honey
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!