Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw has won hearts with its perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors. This classic Southern-style side is a staple at Zoe’s Kitchen, pairing beautifully with grilled meats and sandwiches. It’s the kind of coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch and zest to any meal.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create such a delicious dish. With a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you can easily recreate this crowd-pleasing coleslaw at home. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just craving a tasty salad, this recipe delivers that authentic Zoe’s Kitchen taste every time.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw, we need fresh and simple ingredients that come together to deliver that signature creamy and tangy flavor. Below are the components divided into the coleslaw mix and the dressing for easy preparation.
For the Coleslaw Mix
Start with a blend of crisp vegetables that provide the classic crunch and freshness Zoe’s Kitchen is known for:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage (for color and mild sweetness)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (adds vibrant color and subtle earthiness)
- ½ cup finely sliced green onions (for a mild onion bite)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for a fresh herb note)
For the Dressing
The dressing balances creaminess with bright acidity, key to achieving the iconic Zoe’s Kitchen tang:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ⅓ cup | Use a good-quality mayo |
| Greek yogurt | 2 tablespoons | Adds creaminess and tang |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Provides the signature zing |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon | Balances acidity with sweetness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat and depth |
| Celery seed | ½ teaspoon | Classic coleslaw spice |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adds a mild kick |
This combination creates the perfect Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw dressing—rich yet refreshing, creamy yet tangy, ensuring every bite complements your meal perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw, having the right equipment on hand makes the process smooth and efficient. Here’s what we recommend gathering before starting:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Essential for combining the fresh shredded cabbage, carrots, and herbs evenly without spilling.
- Medium Bowl
Ideal for whisking together the creamy dressing ingredients like mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings until smooth.
- Whisk
Use a whisk to emulsify the dressing ingredients, ensuring a creamy and balanced texture that captures the signature taste of Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw.
- Sharp Kitchen Knife
For shredding the cabbage, slicing green onions, and chopping parsley finely. A sharp knife helps us achieve consistent textures for an appealing crunch.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board offers a safe workspace to prepare vegetables quickly and efficiently.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups
Accurate measurement of ingredients like honey, Dijon mustard, and celery seed is crucial to balance the flavors correctly.
- Colander or Salad Spinner (optional)
To rinse and dry shredded cabbage and carrots thoroughly, ensuring no excess moisture dilutes the dressing.
- Serving Bowl or Container
A nice bowl for serving or a covered container for refrigerating the coleslaw, allowing flavors to meld.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mixing coleslaw vegetables |
| Medium Bowl | Whisking the dressing |
| Whisk | Emulsifying dressing ingredients |
| Sharp Kitchen Knife | Shredding and chopping vegetables |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for vegetable prep |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Precise ingredient measurements |
| Colander/Salad Spinner | Rinsing and drying vegetables before mixing |
| Serving Bowl/Container | Serving or storing the finished coleslaw |
Tip: Using a salad spinner makes drying shredded cabbage hassle-free, resulting in a crispier coleslaw that won’t get soggy when tossed with the tangy dressing.
Equipping ourselves with these tools, we can seamlessly assemble an authentic, restaurant-quality Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw that is bursting with fresh flavor and perfect texture.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to make Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw that delivers authentic flavor and perfect texture every time.
Prep the Vegetables
- Rinse all vegetables thoroughly in cold water using a colander or salad spinner to remove any impurities.
- Dry the vegetables well to ensure the dressing clings properly.
- Thinly shred green cabbage and purple cabbage using a sharp kitchen knife or mandoline slicer for even, crisp pieces.
- Peel and grate the carrots finely, adding a bright color and natural sweetness.
- Slice green onions thinly on a slight bias to enhance visual appeal and flavor distribution.
- If using, chop fresh parsley finely to sprinkle for added freshness and herbaceous notes.
Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following until smooth and creamy:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup (120 ml) |
| Greek yogurt | ¼ cup (60 ml) |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons (30 ml) |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon (15 ml) |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon (5 ml) |
| Celery seed | ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) |
- Use a whisk to blend ingredients thoroughly until the dressing is emulsified and silky.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, balancing the tangy sweetness and creamy richness characteristic of Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw.
Combine and Toss the Coleslaw
- Transfer the shredded vegetables to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the vegetables.
- Toss gently but thoroughly using salad tongs or clean hands to coat every piece with dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side that perfectly complements grilled meats or fresh sandwiches.
Pro Tip: For best results, prepare the coleslaw a few hours ahead. This resting time deepens the flavor and enhances the texture just like at Zoe’s Kitchen.
Make-Ahead Tips
To achieve the best flavor and texture with our Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw Recipe, preparing the coleslaw ahead of time is essential. Here are our top make-ahead tips to ensure your coleslaw stays fresh, crisp, and bursting with flavor.
1. Refrigeration Time
After tossing the shredded vegetables with the creamy dressing, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally between 4 to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to fully meld.
| Refrigeration Time | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 2 hours | Initial flavor melding |
| 4-6 hours | Optimal texture and flavor depth |
| Up to 24 hours | Safe storage, possible textural changes |
Pro Tip: The coleslaw tastes best when served chilled but avoids over 24 hours of refrigeration to prevent sogginess or water release from the vegetables.
2. Keep Vegetables Crisp
To maintain the fresh crunch characteristic of Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw, rinse and dry the shredded cabbage and carrots thoroughly before mixing with the dressing.
- Use a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- If preparing in advance, store the shredded vegetables separately in an airtight container lined with a paper towel.
This prevents the vegetables from releasing too much water and softening when combined with the dressing.
3. Dressing Storage
Prepare the dressing separately and store it in a small airtight jar or container in the refrigerator if you want to mix just before serving. Give it a quick whisk to reincorporate any ingredients that may have settled.
4. Mixing Timing
For the freshest texture, combine the dressing and vegetables 1 to 2 hours before serving. This technique maintains the creamy tang of the dressing while reducing the chance of watery coleslaw.
Summary Table: Make-Ahead Tips for Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw
| Step | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate shredded veggies | Store separately up to 24 hours with paper towel |
| Prepare dressing | Whisk and refrigerate separately |
| Combine coleslaw | Mix 1-2 hours before serving |
| Refrigeration after mixing | 2 to 6 hours for flavor melding |
| Serving temperature | Serve chilled for best taste and texture |
By following these Make-Ahead Tips we ensure that our Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw delivers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy flavor and crisp texture every time.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw, we recommend pairing it with a variety of main dishes to highlight its creamy and tangy profile.
- Grilled Meats
The crisp texture and zesty dressing perfectly complement grilled chicken, ribs, or steak. Serve a generous scoop of coleslaw alongside your favorite grilled protein for a refreshing contrast.
- Sandwiches and Wraps
Add a scoop of our coleslaw to pulled pork sandwiches, gyros, or chicken wraps. The cool crunch balances savory and spicy flavors, enhancing every bite.
- Barbecue Plates
Use the coleslaw as a classic side for any barbecue platter. It cuts through the richness of smoked brisket or burgers and adds a bright refreshing note.
- Taco Toppings
For a unique twist, serve the coleslaw as a topping on fish or shrimp tacos. Its creamy tang elevates the flavor while adding textural interest.
- Light Lunch or Picnic Salad
Enjoy the coleslaw on its own as a crisp, flavorful salad. Dress it with extra lemon or apple cider vinegar for a lighter variation.
| Main Dish Pairings | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | Adds freshness and crunch to smoky flavors | Serve chilled beside grilled skewers |
| Pulled Pork Sandwich | Balances rich and savory with creamy texture | Add as a sandwich topper for contrast |
| BBQ Ribs | Provides tangy brightness to heavy meats | Serve in a side bowl for guests to add freely |
| Fish Tacos | Complements the delicate seafood flavor | Use as a colorful crunchy topping |
| Picnic or Light Salads | Standalone dish with a creamy tang | Garnish with extra parsley or celery seed |
Pro Tip: For optimal serving temperature, keep the coleslaw chilled until just before serving. This preserves its refreshing crunch and helps maintain the perfect balance of creamy dressing and crisp vegetables.
By serving the Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw with these dishes, we ensure every meal feels complete and deliciously balanced.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Zoe’s Kitchen Coleslaw fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Refrigerate promptly: After mixing, place the coleslaw in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. Keep it cold to preserve the creamy texture and crisp vegetables.
- Timing matters: Consume the coleslaw within 24 hours of preparation. Extended storage can cause the cabbage and carrots to become soggy and the dressing to separate.
- Rinse and dry vegetables thoroughly
- Store the shredded vegetables and dressing separately in airtight containers
- Combine them 1 to 2 hours before serving to maintain maximum crunch and freshness
- Keep chilled until serving: Always serve the coleslaw cold. This enhances the tangy creaminess and crisp texture that define Zoe’s Kitchen’s signature slaw.
| Storage Tip | Description | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed coleslaw stored cold | Refrigerate in airtight container | Up to 24 hours |
| Vegetables only | Store shredded vegetables rinsed and dried separately | Up to 2 days |
| Dressing only | Store dressing in separate sealed container | Up to 3 days |
| Combine before serving | Toss vegetables with dressing | 1–2 hours prior |
“Refrigeration & separate storage are our best tools for maintaining that perfect balance of creamy, tangy dressing against crisp, fresh veggies.”
By following these storage instructions, we ensure every bite of our Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw delivers the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch it’s known for.
Conclusion
Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw is a versatile and flavorful side that fits perfectly with a variety of meals. With just a few simple ingredients and the right preparation, we can bring that authentic taste right into our kitchens.
By paying attention to freshness, proper mixing, and storage, we ensure every bite stays crisp and delicious. Whether it’s a casual barbecue or a family dinner, this coleslaw adds a refreshing touch that everyone will appreciate.
Let’s enjoy making this classic Southern-style recipe our own and elevate our meals with its creamy, tangy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw unique?
Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw balances creamy and tangy flavors with a refreshing crunch. It combines simple, fresh ingredients and a special dressing that captures the authentic Southern-style taste.
What ingredients do I need to make Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw at home?
You’ll need shredded green and purple cabbage, carrots, green onions, parsley (optional), mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper.
What equipment is necessary to prepare the coleslaw?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for the veggies, a medium bowl and whisk for the dressing, a sharp knife, cutting board, measuring spoons, cups, and a colander or salad spinner to rinse and dry vegetables.
How do I prepare the vegetables for Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw?
Rinse and dry all vegetables thoroughly, then shred the cabbage thinly, grate the carrots, and slice the green onions before tossing them with the dressing.
How long should I chill the coleslaw before serving?
Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, but for best flavor, chill it for 2 to 6 hours to allow flavors to meld and develop.
Can I prepare the coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, prep the vegetables and dressing separately. Store them in the fridge and combine 1 to 2 hours before serving for best texture and freshness.
How should I store leftover Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
What dishes pair well with Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw?
It pairs excellently with grilled meats, sandwiches, barbecue plates, and tacos, adding a creamy, tangy crunch to each meal.