Sweet restaurant-style slaw is a popular side dish loved for its crisp, fresh taste and perfectly balanced sweet and tangy dressing. This simple yet delicious slaw pairs wonderfully with many meals, from burgers and sandwiches to grilled meats and BBQ. It’s easy to make at home and captures the flavour and texture of the classic slaws you often find in restaurants.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make sweet restaurant-style slaw, you’ll need fresh cabbage (a mix of green and purple works great for colour), shredded carrots, and sometimes thinly sliced onions for extra bite. The key to this slaw is the dressing—a smooth blend of mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar (usually white or apple cider), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Some recipes also add a little lemon juice or mustard for a subtle tang.
How to Make It
First, finely shred the cabbage and carrots. Place them in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat everything evenly. Let the slaw chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavours to blend and the vegetables to soften slightly while keeping their crunch.
Tips for the Perfect Slaw
For extra crunch, try adding thin slices of red onion or celery seeds. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, and balance the tanginess with extra vinegar or lemon juice depending on your taste. Always let the slaw rest before serving to get that classic restaurant flavour.
Sweet restaurant-style slaw is a fresh, crunchy, and sweet side dish that brightens any meal. With a simple combination of cabbage, carrots, and a creamy, sweet dressing, it’s easy to make at home and brings the taste of your favourite restaurant to your table. Perfect for summer BBQs or as a tasty side all year round, this slaw is a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.
FAQs
What makes restaurant-style slaw different?
Restaurant-style slaw usually has a creamy, sweet dressing that balances tangy vinegar with sugar and mayonnaise, giving it a smooth and rich flavour.
Can I make sweet slaw without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
How long should I chill slaw before serving?
At least one hour in the fridge helps the flavours blend and softens the vegetables while keeping them crunchy.
What vegetables are best for sweet slaw?
Green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots are common, but you can add thinly sliced onions or celery for extra flavour.
Is sweet slaw good for BBQs?
Yes, it’s a classic side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches during BBQs and summer meals.
