Coleslaw is a colorful cabbage dish you can prepare in a variety of ways.
Taken from the Dutch word "koolsla," the term "coleslaw" simply means cabbage salad. Though mayonnaise and vinegar are typical coleslaw dressings, anything qualifies as coleslaw as long as cabbage is the main ingredient. Thanks to this very loose rule, the possibilities to put your own spin on this simple salad are virtually endless. Add an unexpected ingredient or serve the dish warm. Even a touch of ethnicity makes this traditional dish new and exciting.
Try Something New
Whether you're experimenting with a new ingredient or variations of the classic ones, variety is the spice of life when it comes to your coleslaw. Add the sweet taste of fall with apples and raisins, or some radishes for a bit of spice. Liven the flavor with pineapple, pimento or bell peppers, or simply use red cabbage instead of green. Experiment with pickles and dressing, or garnish the salad with bright, fresh tomatoes.
Heat Things Up
Some slaw recipes are served warm as a side dish, rather than a chilled salad. Opt for a sweet recipe with honey or the hints of savory bacon or ham. Add broccoli slaw or shredded zucchini for another layer of flavor as well as vitamins and nutrients. You can also heat up the traditional combination of cabbage, carrot and vinegar with the use of mustard seeds to add a little spice.
Go Ethnic
Just as Indian slaw can include things like hot bacon, other cultural diversity includes those who are German, Mexican, Asian and Greek. The German version of coleslaw includes onions, pimento peppers and celery seeds. The Mexican variety can include both red and green cabbage as well as yogurt and smoky cumin. For an Asian slaw, add ramen noodles to your cabbage, as well as almonds and savory soy sauce. For a healthy taste of the Mediterranean, use olive oil in the dressing and top your dish with feta cheese and marinated Greek olives.
Tags: cabbage well