Alabama Slaw from Lizard Thicket is a Southern classic that brings a fresh twist to traditional coleslaw. Known for its tangy, slightly sweet flavor and crisp texture, this slaw is a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners. It’s simple to make yet packed with vibrant flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
We love how this recipe balances creamy and zesty elements, creating a slaw that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Alabama Slaw from Lizard Thicket offers a delicious way to brighten up your meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of the South to our table.
Ingredients
To create the authentic Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket Recipe, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that capture the signature tang and crunch. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of creamy and zesty flavors.
For the Slaw
- 1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 small head red cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, julienned (optional for extra crunch and color)
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise, preferably full-fat for richness
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, to add tanginess
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, for depth and a gentle kick
- 1 tablespoon sugar, to balance acidity
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed, for aromatic flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients (If Any)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish and freshness
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, if you prefer a brighter tang
- Ice cubes, to chill the slaw before serving (optional)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient Details | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Slaw Vegetables | Green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red onion, green bell pepper | See above |
| Dressing Components | Mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, pepper | See above |
| Extras | Fresh parsley, lemon juice, ice cubes | Optional |
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. These tools ensure precise chopping, mixing, and chilling for the ideal texture and flavor.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For finely shredding crisp green and red cabbage, slicing red onions, and dicing optional green bell peppers with ease and accuracy.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy board gives us a safe and clean surface to prep all vegetables efficiently.
- Box Grater or Food Processor
For grating fresh carrots quickly and uniformly, a box grater works well, or a food processor with a shredding blade speeds up the process.
- Large Mixing Bowl
We need a generous bowl to combine shredded vegetables and toss them with the dressing thoroughly without spilling.
- Whisk
To blend the dressing ingredients — including mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and celery seed — into a smooth, creamy emulsion.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accuracy in measuring ingredients like sugar, vinegar, and celery seed is critical to balancing tangy and sweet flavors.
- Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container
Cover and refrigerate the slaw to meld flavors and maintain crisp freshness before serving.
- Serving Bowl and Spoon
To present our vibrant Alabama Slaw with a polished finish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chef’s Knife | Fine slicing and shredding |
| Cutting Board | Safe vegetable prep |
| Box Grater/Food Processor | Uniform carrot shredding |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Tossing slaw ingredients |
| Whisk | Emulsifying dressing |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Plastic Wrap/Airtight Container | Storing and chilling |
| Serving Bowl/Spoon | Presentation and serving |
Preparation
To achieve the perfect Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket flavor and texture, careful preparation of the vegetables and dressing is essential. Let’s walk through each step meticulously to ensure every bite bursts with the classic Southern tang and crispness.
Prep the Vegetables
We start by preparing the vegetables, the backbone of our Alabama Slaw. Precision in shredding and slicing enhances the salad’s crunch and presentation.
- Cabbage: Use a sharp chef’s knife to thinly slice 4 cups of green cabbage and 2 cups of red cabbage. Aim for fine, uniform shreds to balance texture and flavor.
- Carrots: Grate 2 medium carrots finely using a box grater or food processor for quick, consistent pieces.
- Red Onion: Slice 1 medium red onion into thin rings or half-moons to add a mild sharpness.
- Green Bell Pepper (optional): Remove seeds and membranes. Slice 1 small green bell pepper into thin strips for an added crunchy bite.
We place all prepped vegetables into a large mixing bowl, tossing lightly to blend their colors and textures.
| Vegetable | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Green cabbage | 4 cups (shredded) | Thinly shredded |
| Red cabbage | 2 cups (shredded) | Thinly shredded |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Finely grated |
| Red onion | 1 medium | Thinly sliced |
| Green bell pepper | 1 small (optional) | Thinly sliced strips |
Make the Dressing
Creating an emulsified dressing is key to capturing the vibrant Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket taste—tangy yet creamy with subtle sweetness.
- In a separate bowl, combine:
- ½ cup mayonnaise for creaminess
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar to provide tang
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for a gentle zing
- 1 tablespoon sugar to balance acidity
- 1 teaspoon celery seed for aromatic depth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and fully emulsified.
- Optionally, stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for extra brightness or a few ice cubes in the slaw to keep it crisp before serving.
This smooth dressing will coat our vibrant vegetables beautifully, marrying the flavors in every forkful of our classic Southern slaw.
Directions
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create the Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket Recipe with perfect texture and flavor every time.
Tossing the Slaw
- Place all shredded and sliced vegetables—green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red onion, and optional bell pepper—into a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables.
- Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss the slaw until the dressing thoroughly coats every shred and slice.
- Toss just enough to combine and avoid breaking down the vegetables, preserving that iconic crisp texture.
Chilling the Slaw
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the slaw to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- For the best taste and texture, we recommend chilling for 2 to 3 hours.
- Before serving, briefly toss the slaw once more to redistribute dressing and refresh the mix.
| Chilling Time | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 Hour | Initial flavor melding |
| 2-3 Hours | Optimal flavor and crispness |
| Overnight | Stronger flavor, softer texture |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket chilled as a perfect side dish for barbecue, fried chicken, or sandwiches.
- Scoop onto plates as a refreshing topping for pulled pork or burgers for authentic Southern flair.
- Pair it with crispy fries or cornmeal hush puppies for a complete Southern meal experience.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of celery seed for added color and aroma.
Embrace the bright, tangy crunch of this classic slaw to elevate any meal occasion.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy the best flavors of our Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket recipe, planning ahead is key. Making the slaw in advance lets the dressing fully infuse the vegetables, enhancing the tangy and sweet balance that defines this Southern classic.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Dressing Separately
- Shred and slice all vegetables as detailed: green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, and optional green bell pepper.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients — mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, and seasoning — in a separate bowl.
Step 2: Combine and Refrigerate
- Toss the shredded vegetables with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Transfer the slaw to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Step 3: Chill for Optimal Flavor
- Refrigerate the slaw for at least 1 hour to allow the dressing to meld with the crisp vegetables.
- For the best taste and texture, a chill time of 2 to 3 hours is recommended.
| Make-Ahead Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 Hour | Minimum refrigeration for basic flavor blend |
| 2 to 3 Hours | Ideal for robust flavor development and crisp texture |
| Up to 24 Hours | Slaw can be made a day ahead and kept chilled, but consume within 24 hours for freshness |
Pro Tips for Make-Ahead Success
- Store the slaw in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
- Do not add salty toppings like extra celery seed or additional salt until serving, as salt can draw out too much moisture over time.
- Give the slaw a quick gentle toss before serving to redistribute dressing and refresh the texture.
“Chilling the slaw ahead unlocks the true magic of the Alabama Slaw Lizard Thicket recipe — a harmonious dance of tangy, sweet, and crunchy sensations,” a hallmark of any Southern gathering.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we’ll have a vibrant, perfectly balanced slaw ready to elevate any barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner.
Tips for the Best Alabama Slaw
To achieve the perfect Alabama Slaw, we focus on key techniques that enhance texture, flavor, and presentation. Here are our top tips to create a memorable dish every time.
1. Use Fresh, Crisp Vegetables
The foundation of authentic Alabama Slaw is fresh and crisp vegetables. Select firm cabbage heads with no wilted leaves. Grate or shred just before mixing to maintain crunch.
- Always rinse the cabbage under cold water to refresh it.
- Pat dry thoroughly to avoid a watery slaw.
2. Master the Shredding Technique
Fine, uniform shredding ensures each bite delivers consistent texture and flavor. Use a sharp chef’s knife for thin slices or a box grater for shredded carrots and cabbage.
| Vegetable | Preparation Method | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Green Cabbage | Thinly sliced | Cut into quarters first for easier handling |
| Red Cabbage | Finely shredded | Adds vibrant color and slight sweetness |
| Carrots | Grated or shredded | Use a fine box grater for smooth texture |
| Red Onion | Thinly sliced | Soak in cold water briefly to reduce bite |
| Green Bell Pepper | Thin strips (optional) | Use only if you want added crunch and color |
3. Balance the Dressing Flavor
A perfect Alabama Slaw dressing strikes a balance between tangy, sweet, and creamy. Here’s how to make it just right:
- Combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard thoroughly.
- Add sugar gradually — start with less, then adjust to taste.
- Stir in celery seed last for subtle aromatic depth.
- Taste the dressing before mixing with vegetables to maintain control over the final flavor.
4. Toss Gently but Thoroughly
After combining slaw and dressing, toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated without bruising the vegetables. Use large bowl and clean hands or salad tongs.
“Gentle tossing preserves the crunch while infusing the dressing evenly.”
5. Chill for Optimal Flavor Fusion
Refrigerate the Alabama Slaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This step is crucial; chilling allows the flavors to marry and the cabbage to soften just slightly without losing crispness.
| Chilling Time | Effect on Flavor & Texture |
|---|---|
| 1 Hour | Flavors begin to blend, slaw stays crisp |
| 2-3 Hours | Optimal flavor depth and texture |
| Up to 24 Hours | Maximum melded flavor, fresh taste retained |
6. Adjust for Personal Preferences
Feel free to tweak ingredients for your ideal taste:
- For extra tang, add a splash of fresh lemon juice.
- Reduce sugar for a less sweet slaw.
- Include fresh parsley or scallions for herbal brightness.
7. Avoid Over-Salting Before Serving
If you plan to add salty toppings such as bacon or cheese, skip adding extra salt in the dressing. This prevents the slaw from becoming overly salty.
Remember These Key Points
- Always prepare the slaw just before your event or cook in advance and refrigerate.
- Keep the slaw cold until serving for the best texture.
- Use airtight containers to maintain freshness if storing.
By following these tips, our Alabama Slaw will always deliver that classic tangy crunch and refreshing bite that makes it a Southern favorite.
Conclusion
Alabama Slaw from Lizard Thicket is a versatile side that brings a fresh, tangy crunch to any meal. Its vibrant flavors and crisp texture make it a standout addition to barbecues, sandwiches, or casual dinners.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe fits perfectly into our cooking routine, whether we’re preparing it last minute or making it ahead. Embracing this classic slaw means adding a bit of Southern charm and zest to our table every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alabama Slaw?
Alabama Slaw is a Southern-style coleslaw known for its tangy, slightly sweet flavor and crisp texture. It typically includes green and red cabbage, carrots, and a creamy, zesty dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
What ingredients are needed for Alabama Slaw?
Key ingredients include shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, and seasonings. Optional additions can be green bell pepper, fresh parsley, and lemon juice.
How do I prepare Alabama Slaw?
Shred or slice fresh vegetables finely, whisk together the dressing ingredients, then gently toss the vegetables with the dressing. Chill the slaw for at least 1 hour, preferably 2 to 3 hours, to let flavors meld.
Can I make Alabama Slaw ahead of time?
Yes, Alabama Slaw tastes better when made ahead. Prepare it and refrigerate in an airtight container for 1 to 3 hours or up to 24 hours. Avoid adding salty toppings until just before serving.
What equipment do I need to make Alabama Slaw?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, box grater or food processor, large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring spoons and cups, and airtight storage containers or plastic wrap.
How long should I chill Alabama Slaw before serving?
Chilling Alabama Slaw for at least 1 hour is essential for flavor blending. For the best taste and texture, 2 to 3 hours is recommended, but it can be stored up to 24 hours before serving.
What dishes pair well with Alabama Slaw?
Alabama Slaw is perfect as a side for barbecue, fried chicken, sandwiches, or Southern-style dinners. Its tangy, crisp flavors complement rich, savory dishes beautifully.
How can I customize the flavor of Alabama Slaw?
Adjust the sweetness, tang, or creaminess by varying sugar, vinegar, or mayonnaise amounts. Add fresh herbs like parsley or a splash of lemon juice to brighten flavors to your liking.
Why is it important to not over-salt Alabama Slaw?
Over-salting can overpower the bright, balanced flavors of the slaw. Also, if you add salty toppings like bacon or cheese, seasoning beforehand can make the dish too salty.
What tips help achieve the best texture in Alabama Slaw?
Use fresh, crisp vegetables and shred them finely but not too thin. Gently toss the slaw with the dressing to keep vegetables crisp and avoid sogginess. Chilling before serving enhances texture.