Cheese slaw is a beloved Southern classic that brings a unique twist to traditional coleslaw. Originating from Roanoke, VA, this recipe combines the crispness of fresh cabbage with the creamy richness of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect side dish to complement barbecue, fried chicken, or any comfort food feast.
We love how cheese slaw adds a bold flavor and satisfying texture that sets it apart from your everyday slaw. This recipe is simple to make and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just craving something different, our cheese slaw will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Cheese Slaw that captures the authentic Roanoke, VA flavor, we use fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below are the essentials broken down into clear categories for easy preparation.
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for that distinctive boldness)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (adds a mild pungency)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for color and freshness)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (rich and creamy base)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for tang and balance)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (cuts acidity and enhances sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (classic slaw spice that boosts flavor)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (adds crunch and color)
- 1/4 cup chopped sweet pickles (sweet tangy surprise)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds sharp pungency)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky depth)
| Ingredient Category | Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Green cabbage | 4 cups shredded | Fresh and crisp |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup shredded | Sharp for bold flavor | |
| Carrots | 1/2 cup shredded | Adds sweetness and color | |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup chopped | Mild pungency | |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons chopped | Optional for garnish | |
| Dressing Ingredients | Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | Creamy base |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Tanginess | |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | Balances acidity | |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors | |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground | |
| Celery seed | 1/4 teaspoon | Classic slaw spice | |
| Optional Add-Ins | Green bell pepper | 1/4 cup diced | Crunchy texture |
| Sweet pickles | 1/4 cup chopped | Sweet and tangy | |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Sharp flavor enhancer | |
| Smoked paprika | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds smoky depth |
We recommend measuring precisely and prepping all ingredients before mixing, ensuring our Cheese Slaw Recipe from Roanoke, VA turns out perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke Va, having the right equipment is crucial for efficiency and consistency. Here is what we recommend:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly. Choose one that is spacious enough to toss the slaw without spilling.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For finely chopping the red onion and optionally dicing green bell peppers or sweet pickles. A sharp blade ensures clean cuts and prevents bruising.
- Cutting Board
Use a stable surface to prep vegetables safely.
- Vegetable Peeler
Helpful for peeling carrots before shredding.
- Box Grater or Food Processor with Shredding Attachment
For shredding the green cabbage and sharp cheddar cheese to get that ideal texture and even distribution in the slaw.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and dry spices like celery seed and black pepper is key to balance the dressing perfectly.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula
To fold the dressing into the slaw gently without crushing the ingredients.
- Optional: Salad Spinner
Use this to wash and dry shredded cabbage and shredded carrots, removing excess moisture to keep the slaw crisp.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine all ingredients |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Chop onions and other optional veggies |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for prepping |
| Vegetable Peeler | Peel carrots |
| Box Grater or Food Processor | Shred cabbage and cheddar cheese |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure dressing ingredients |
| Mixing Spoon or Spatula | Mix slaw gently |
| Salad Spinner (Optional) | Dry shredded vegetables |
Using these tools will help us maintain the bold flavor and satisfying texture that characterize our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke Va. As one barbecue enthusiast says,
“Proper prep tools produce consistently delicious slaw every time.“
Let’s prepare our equipment first to ensure a smooth and flavorful cheese slaw making experience.
Preparation
To craft the perfect Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA, precise preparation of each component is essential. We focus on prepping the vegetables and grating the cheese to achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance.
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by selecting fresh vegetables to highlight the crispness of our slaw. Follow these steps:
- Green Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Shred finely using a box grater or food processor for uniformity.
- Carrots: Peel the carrots thoroughly using a vegetable peeler. Then shred them finely to integrate smoothly with the cabbage.
- Red Onion: Peel and finely chop the red onion. Aim for small pieces to distribute its sharpness evenly without overpowering.
- Optional Add-ins: If using diced green bell pepper or chopped sweet pickles, prepare them into small pieces to enhance texture without bulk.
We recommend drying all vegetables in a salad spinner or patting them with paper towels to prevent excess moisture which can dilute the dressing.
| Vegetable | Preparation Method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Green Cabbage | Core removed, finely shredded | Crisp base for the slaw |
| Carrots | Peeled, shredded | Adds sweetness and color |
| Red Onion | Finely chopped | Sharp, pungent flavor |
| Green Bell Pepper | Diced (optional) | Adds crunch and mild spice |
| Sweet Pickles | Chopped (optional) | Sweet tanginess |
Grating the Cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese is the backbone of our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA. Here’s how to prepare it correctly:
- Use a sharp sharp chef’s knife or box grater to shred the cheddar evenly.
- Aim for medium-sized shreds that melt slightly into the slaw but still offer noticeable bursts of flavor.
- Prefer using sharp cheddar to bring out the dish’s signature bold taste contrasted against the fresh vegetables.
- Grate the cheese just before mixing to retain moisture and flavor intensity.
Tip: For convenience, we sometimes use a food processor with a grating attachment to speed up this step while ensuring consistency across batches.
With vegetables prepped and cheese grated perfectly, we set the foundation for mixing our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA with the dressing and final seasonings.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create an authentic Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA that delivers fresh texture and bold flavor.
Making the Dressing
Prepare the dressing first to ensure the flavors meld properly.
- In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar.
- Add ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon celery seed.
- For an optional flavor boost, stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the dressing is smooth and the sugar dissolves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for balance.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Celery seed | ½ teaspoon |
| Dijon mustard (opt.) | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika (opt.) | ¼ teaspoon |
Combining Ingredients
Next, we assemble the fresh ingredients to maintain the slaw’s vibrant texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, add 4 cups shredded green cabbage.
- Mix in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese—grated fresh for maximum flavor.
- Add ½ cup shredded carrots, ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, and 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Optionally fold in 2 tablespoons diced green bell pepper and 2 tablespoons chopped sweet pickles for extra crunch and tang.
Tip: Make sure all vegetables are well-drained and dry to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
Tossing the Slaw
Combine the dressing and ingredients carefully to preserve texture and flavor balance.
- Pour the dressing evenly over the cabbage mixture.
- Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss the slaw until every strand of cabbage is coated with the creamy dressing.
- Toss just enough to combine—overmixing can crush the crunch.
- Cover the slaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to marry.
Remember: Chilling the slaw enriches the Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA’s signature tang and sharpness while maintaining its crisp bite.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA shines brightest when paired thoughtfully. Here are classic and creative ways to serve this Southern favorite, enhancing any meal with its bold flavors and creamy texture.
Perfect Pairings
- Barbecue Plates: Serve alongside smoked ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. The sharp cheddar and tangy dressing cut through rich smoky flavors, balancing the palate.
- Sandwiches and Burgers: Top pulled pork or beef burgers with a generous scoop of cheese slaw for added crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Southern Comfort Foods: Pair with fried chicken, catfish, or hush puppies to create a complete, satisfying Southern meal.
Plating and Presentation Tips
- Use a shallow bowl or wide ramekin to display the vibrant colors of shredded cabbage, bright carrots, and sharp cheddar.
- Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra visual and flavor boost.
- Serve chilled to maintain the slaw’s crisp texture and refreshing bite.
Serving Temperature
| Serving Temperature | Description | Effect on Flavor & Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cold (Chilled 30+ min) | Preferred serving state | Enhances crispness; melds flavors perfectly |
| Room Temperature | Optional for immediate serving | Softer texture; flavors less pronounced |
Additional Accents to Consider
- Add pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Include toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch contrast.
- Drizzle with a little extra apple cider vinegar for a sharper tang if desired.
By integrating these serving suggestions, we ensure our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA elevates your next cookout or family dinner with its authentic Southern charm and irresistible flavor.
Tips and Variations
Mastering our Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA means knowing how to customize it to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some expert tips and creative variations to elevate this Southern classic.
Cheese Alternatives
While sharp cheddar is the signature cheese that defines the bold flavor of our cheese slaw, experimenting with different cheese types can add unique twists. Consider these options:
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Texture Impact | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colby Jack | Mild and creamy | Smooth and melty | Great for a milder slaw |
| Monterey Jack | Buttery and slightly tangy | Soft, melts well | Adds a subtle richness |
| Smoked Gouda | Deep, smoky, complex | Creamy and firm | Provides a smoky twist for BBQ |
| Pepper Jack | Spicy with jalapeño bits | Slightly crumbly | Adds a spicy kick for adventurous eaters |
“Using a different cheese lets us tailor the slaw’s intensity, adjusting both flavor and texture to our liking.”
Adding Protein
To turn our cheese slaw into a satisfying main or side with an extra boost, integrating proteins works beautifully. Here are a few ideas:
- Pulled pork: Adds smoky richness complementing the sharp cheddar.
- Grilled chicken: Lightens the dish, providing a lean protein contrast.
- Crispy bacon bits: Bring savory crunch and smoke.
- Chickpeas or black beans: For a vegetarian option adding texture and nutrition.
“We recommend adding protein right before serving to maintain the slaw’s crisp texture.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prepping Cheese Slaw Recipe Roanoke VA ahead of time ensures convenience without sacrificing quality. Follow these expert storage tips for best results:
| Step | Instruction | Purpose/Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare dressing | Mix dressing ingredients and refrigerate separately | Keeps dressing fresh and tangy |
| Prep vegetables | Shred and dry vegetables thoroughly | Prevents sogginess |
| Grate cheese last | Shred the cheese just before assembly | Retains moisture and flavor |
| Combine before serving | Toss vegetables, cheese, and dressing just before eating | Maintains crisp texture |
| Storage | Store in airtight container in the refrigerator | Keeps slaw fresh for up to 2 days |
| Avoid freezing | Do not freeze the assembled slaw | Texture degrades with freezing |
Conclusion
Cheese slaw from Roanoke, VA, brings a fresh and flavorful twist to any meal. Its blend of sharp cheddar and crisp vegetables creates a side dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re grilling out or looking to brighten up your comfort food, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, cheese slaw is easy to make and customize to your taste. We encourage you to experiment with the variations and serving ideas to find your favorite combination. This dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, adding bold Southern charm to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cheese slaw?
Cheese slaw is a Southern-style salad from Roanoke, VA, combining shredded green cabbage with sharp cheddar cheese and other fresh vegetables, dressed in a tangy, creamy sauce. It’s a flavorful twist on traditional coleslaw, perfect for pairing with barbecue and comfort foods.
What ingredients are needed to make authentic cheese slaw?
Key ingredients include shredded green cabbage, sharp cheddar cheese, shredded carrots, finely chopped red onion, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seed. Optional add-ins are parsley, green bell pepper, sweet pickles, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
What equipment do I need to prepare cheese slaw?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, vegetable peeler, box grater or food processor, measuring cups and spoons, a mixing spoon or spatula, and optionally a salad spinner to wash and dry vegetables.
How do I prevent my cheese slaw from becoming watery?
Ensure all vegetables are thoroughly dried using a salad spinner or paper towels before mixing. Grate cheese just before assembly to retain moisture and avoid adding excess liquid through wet ingredients.
Can I customize the cheese in cheese slaw?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Smoked Gouda, or Pepper Jack to vary the flavor and texture according to your preference.
How should cheese slaw be served?
Cheese slaw is best served chilled to maintain crispness and flavor melding. It pairs well with barbecue plates, sandwiches, fried chicken, or catfish. Garnish with fresh parsley or smoked paprika for presentation.
How long can cheese slaw be stored?
Store cheese slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate and combine it with the vegetables just before serving to keep the slaw crisp. Avoid freezing.
Can I add protein to cheese slaw to make it more filling?
Yes, adding pulled pork, grilled chicken, crispy bacon bits, or chickpeas can boost the heartiness and make cheese slaw a more substantial dish.