Not Your Grandma’s Slaw: Creative Coleslaw Variations Anyone Can Make!
Coleslaw doesn’t have to be boring! Whether you’re topping off pulled pork sandwiches, serving up a summer BBQ spread, or just looking for a fresh side dish, coleslaw is a quick and easy option that’s endlessly customizable.
In this post, I’m sharing 8 fun and flavorful coleslaw variations you can make at home using simple, affordable ingredients. From tropical Hawaiian slaw to a bold Southwest version, these recipes bring new life to your classic cabbage mix.
Ready to toss things up?
8 Coleslaw Recipes to Try
Apple Slaw – Crisp apples and celery add crunch and sweetness to this lighter slaw. Serve it with baked pork chops, roasted turkey sandwiches, or fall-inspired wraps.
Cranberry Almond Slaw- A crunchy, slightly sweet slaw with dried cranberries and toasted almonds. Try it with rotisserie chicken, turkey sandwiches, or Thanksgiving leftovers.
Garlic Parmesan Slaw- Savory, cheesy, and ultra flavorful. Pair it with Italian sausage sandwiches, garlic butter chicken, or even tucked into a meatball sub.
Hawaiian Slaw – A creamy slaw with sweet pineapple and a hint of tang — this tropical twist is perfect alongside pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or teriyaki burgers.
Jalapeno Ranch Slaw – Cool and creamy with just the right amount of heat. Great on BBQ brisket sandwiches, burgers, or inside a wrap with crispy chicken.
Mango Lime Slaw – Fresh mango and lime juice bring brightness to this crunchy slaw. Delicious with fish tacos, grilled shrimp, or as a topping for rice bowls.
Orange Ginger Slaw – Zingy and fresh with a touch of soy and sesame — this slaw is a great match for Asian-inspired meals, sticky chicken drumsticks, or sesame tofu wraps.
Southwest Slaw – Loaded with corn, black beans, and bold spices — this one shines next to grilled steak, burritos, or even as a taco topper.
Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Coleslaw
Coleslaw doesn’t have to be an afterthought or something you buy pre-made at the grocery store. It can be the unexpected star of the plate!
With just a few simple mix-ins or a quick homemade dressing, you can turn a bag of slaw mix into something totally new and flavorful.
Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, tangy, or savory, there’s a version here that’s perfect for your next cookout, taco night, or busy weeknight dinner.
Try one (or all!) and see which becomes your new favorite. Don’t forget to check the prices of buying cabbage whole and cutting it yourself versus the precut kind. Sometimes the prices can vary by a lot, so look for savings where you can!
