If you’re craving something fresh, tangy, and utterly irresistible, let me introduce you to the Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe. This delightful salad is a perfect marriage of creamy mayo, zesty pickle juice, and vibrant dill, all tossed with crisp shredded cabbage for a delightful crunch. Whether you want to jazz up your summer cookout or add a bright side to your weeknight dinner, this coleslaw brings a refreshing twist to the classic favorite that will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of everyday ingredients that combine to create something spectacular. Each element plays a special role, from the creamy base to the tangy punch of pickle juice and the aromatic dill that ties it all together, making every bite a harmonious experience.
- Mayonnaise (½ – 1 cup): Provides the luxurious creamy texture that coats every strand of cabbage perfectly.
- Pickle juice (½ cup): Infuses the coleslaw with that distinctive tangy zip that makes pickle coleslaw so addictive.
- Diced pickles (½ – 1 cup): Adds bursts of crunch and flavor, elevating the coleslaw’s pickle goodness to the next level.
- Mustard (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle depth and slight acidity balancing the creamy and tangy flavors.
- Fresh or dried dill (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant herbal note that brightens the entire dish beautifully.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Introduces a gentle savory element without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Sugar or sweetener (2 tablespoons): Softens the tanginess and rounds out the flavors with a delicate sweetness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential to enhance and balance every flavor note in the coleslaw.
- Shredded coleslaw mix (4 cups): The crunchy vegetable base, typically a mix of cabbage and carrots, providing freshness and crisp texture.
How to Make Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Begin by combining the mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, diced pickles, dill, garlic powder, sugar or sweetener, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl or your serving dish. Stir these ingredients together until you have a wonderfully smooth, creamy dressing that boasts that perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and herbaceous freshness.
Step 2: Toss with the Coleslaw Mix
Add the shredded coleslaw mix to the bowl and gently toss everything until the veggies are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. This step is where the magic really happens—ensuring every shreds of cabbage and carrot get a kiss of those bold flavors. Don’t be shy about tasting as you go—if you want a punchier pickle flavor, feel free to add more pickle juice or dill to suit your mood.
Step 3: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy the Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe straight away for that fresh crunch or pop it in the refrigerator for an hour or two to let the flavors meld beautifully. Chilling helps deepen the flavors, making each bite more harmonious and satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and crunch, I love sprinkling freshly chopped dill or a few thin pickle slices on top just before serving. It gives a fresh, inviting look that lets everyone know this coleslaw means business. Some freshly cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of extra pickle juice over the top can also add a subtle, delicious finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This creamy, tangy pickle-flavored coleslaw is a dream pairing for almost any meal. Try it alongside grilled burgers, smoked ribs, or crispy fried chicken to balance out rich, hearty flavors. It’s also fantastic with fish tacos or alongside a deli sandwich to add that zesty crunch and creamy delight you never knew you needed.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve this coleslaw in mini mason jars for a charming, individual portion at parties. Another winning idea is layering it in a clear bowl with grilled corn kernels and chopped herbs to add vibrant color contrast. Or, use it as a vibrant topping for baked potatoes or open-faced sandwiches for a fresh and creamy burst of flavor that enhances any dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh veggies, it’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal crunch and flavor. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing and juices may settle or separate slightly.
Freezing
This coleslaw is not a good candidate for freezing because the cabbage and creamy dressing can become watery and lose their texture once thawed. I recommend enjoying it fresh or refrigerated for the best taste experience.
Reheating
Since this coleslaw is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. The fresh crunch and creamy dressing shine brightest when chilled, so just give it a quick stir and serve cold or slightly chilled for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use regular vinegar instead of pickle juice?
While you can substitute vinegar in a pinch, pickle juice has a unique combination of flavors from brine, garlic, and spices that vinegar alone can’t replicate. The pickle juice is key to achieving the signature tangy and deeply savory flavor of this coleslaw.
What type of pickles works best for this recipe?
Dill pickles are your best friend here. Their flavor complements the dill in the dressing perfectly, reinforcing that tangy, herbaceous theme. Avoid sweet pickles as they’ll change the character of this coleslaw.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the mayo for a vegan mayonnaise alternative and ensure your mustard and other ingredients are plant-based. You’ll still get that creamy, tangy magic without any dairy or eggs.
Is this coleslaw spicy?
Nope, this Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe has no heat to speak of. It’s more about tang, creaminess, and fresh herbal notes, making it a great side for those who prefer mild, flavorful dishes.
How can I make this coleslaw less creamy?
If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the mayo and increase the pickle juice slightly. You can even add a little bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter creamy alternative. Adjust seasoning to keep that delicious balance.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe enough—it’s one of those wonderful dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. Simple to make, packed with layers of flavor, and irresistibly crunchy, it’s guaranteed to brighten up any meal and have you coming back for seconds. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become your new favorite side!
Print
Creamy Dill Pickle Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Coleslaw is a tangy and refreshing side dish featuring a smooth mayonnaise-based dressing balanced with pickle juice and fresh dill. Perfect for quick preparation, it combines shredded coleslaw mix with a flavorful, slightly sweet dressing that can be served immediately or chilled for enhanced flavor.
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ – 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup pickle juice
- ½ – 1 cup diced pickles
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener
- salt and pepper to taste
Salad Ingredient
- 4 cups shredded coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl or your serving dish, combine mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, diced pickles, dill, garlic powder, sugar or sweetener, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Mix with Coleslaw: Add the shredded coleslaw mix to the dressing. Stir thoroughly to ensure the dressing coats all the vegetables evenly. Taste the coleslaw and adjust the flavors by adding more pickle juice or dill if you prefer a stronger pickle flavor.
- Serve or Chill: You can serve the coleslaw immediately for a crisp and fresh taste or chill it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- Adjust pickle juice and dill quantity according to your taste preference for tanginess.
- Use sweetener alternatives to sugar if you want to reduce calories or suit dietary needs.
- Chilling the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes improves flavor melding but is optional.
- This coleslaw is best served fresh, within 1-2 days for optimal texture and flavor.
- For a lower fat version, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with light mayo or Greek yogurt.
