Rainbow Carrot Slaw with Tangy Homemade Dressing

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rainbow carrot cole slaw

What’s Up, Hungry People?

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of fresh ingredients and grilling season! I’m always on the hunt for side dishes that complement my grilling adventures, and this rainbow carrot coleslaw has become a fast favorite. The unique blend of flavors and colors not only makes it a visual treat but also a delicious pairing for any barbecue spread.

I stumbled upon this recipe during the pandemic when I had to get creative with ingredients due to shortages at the store (seriously though, who causes a run on carrots of all things?).

Rainbow carrots became a fun and unexpected star in my kitchen lineup when regular carrots were nowhere to be found. What started as a fridge-clearing experiment turned into a staple side dish that pairs perfectly with my sous vide pork ribs.

rainbow carrot cole slaw recipe

Here’s What You Need:

These ingredients combine to make a sweet and tangy coleslaw with just enough zip. It pairs wonderfully with many different BBQ dishes.

  • Garlic Expressions: A flavorful garlic vinaigrette; substitute with your favorite brand.
  • Rainbow carrots: Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch; can substitute with regular carrots.
  • Bagged coleslaw: Conveniently pre-shredded cabbage mix; slice your own cabbage if you prefer.
  • Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the tangy sauce.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Adds a punch of acidity to balance flavors.
  • A touch of sugar: Optional but highlights the natural sweetness of the carrots.
  • Minced red onion: Adds a sharp, zesty flavor to the mix.
  • Dill seed: Provides a subtle hint of dill without overpowering the dish.
  • Spicy brown mustard: Brings a bit of spice and depth to the coleslaw.

I didn’t love coleslaw until well into adulthood, probably because everyone makes it differently, and store-bought varieties can be just meh. But this coleslaw is quickly becoming a go-to side dish for grill nights. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight or a cookout!

The rainbow carrots create ribbons of colorful tastiness throughout the coleslaw. Serve alongside your favorite grilled dish while enjoying a bit of summer sunshine.

recipe for cole slaw with rainbow carrots

Let’s Get Our Slaw On

First, grab a small bowl and toss in the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, red onion, dill seed, spicy brown mustard, and Garlic Expressions. Give it a good stir until the sauce is thick and the sugar has dissolved. The aroma of this mix alone should have you excited for what’s to come!

Toss the Veggies

In a separate mixing bowl, combine your julienned rainbow carrots and shredded cabbage. Now, pour that flavorful sauce all over the mix. Give it a thorough toss until every piece of carrot and cabbage is nicely coated. The colors should already look appealing enough to eat!

Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together, giving the dish that classic coleslaw taste. When you’re ready to eat, just grab a fork and dig in—it’s coleslaw time!

Extra Tips for the Best Rainbow Carrot Coleslaw

  • Chill Out: Letting the coleslaw chill for at least an hour really brings the flavors together. If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute chill can work in a pinch.
  • Carrot Power: Rainbow carrots not only add color but also a hint of sweetness. If you can’t find them, regular carrots will still do the trick.
  • Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mix. It’ll kick things up a notch!
  • Substitution Suggestions: Feel free to swap in Greek yogurt for half the mayo if you want a lighter version. It’s a great way to cut calories without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Onion Options: If red onion is too strong for your taste, try using green onions for a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.

Common Questions

  • Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! This coleslaw tastes even better the next day. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container, and give it a toss before serving.
  • What should I pair with this coleslaw?
  • How long will this coleslaw keep in the fridge?
    • It should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container to maintain its crispiness.
  • Is there a substitute for dill seed?
    • If you’re out of dill seed, a small amount of fresh dill or a pinch of celery seed can work in a pinch.
carrot and cole slaw dressing

This rainbow carrot coleslaw is perfect for grill nights and backyard barbecues. It combines a mix of sweet and tangy elements with a bit of crunch, offering something fresh and unique for your table. If you’re tired of bland, store-bought coleslaw, give this version a try—it’s bright, easy to prepare, and anything but boring. Plus, it comes together quickly, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re new to coleslaw or have been a fan for years, this dish offers a refreshing take on a classic side. Pair it with your favorite grilled meats or enjoy it on its own. No matter what, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit!

rainbow carrot cole slaw

Rainbow Carrot Cole Slaw

The Starving Chef
Rainbow carrot coleslaw combines sweet and tangy flavors with a crunchy texture, perfect for any BBQ or cookout.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Side Dish, Summer
Cuisine American, Cookout
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bag shredded cabbage
  • 2 rainbow / purple carrots julienned
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar optional, to taste
  • ¼ cup red onion minced
  • 2 teaspoons dill seed
  • 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic Expressions or your favorite garlic vinaigrette

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine all ingredients except for the cabbage and carrots. Stir until a thick sauce forms and the sugar has dissolved.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, toss together the julienned carrots and shredded cabbage. Pour the sauce over the mix and toss well until coated evenly. Chill for at least one hour for best flavor. Enjoy!
Keyword cabbage, carrots, cole slaw
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