Dill Pickle Coleslaw

Introduction & Inspiration

Dill Pickle Coleslaw is a tangy, crunchy, and flavorful twist on classic coleslaw. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or any meal that needs a refreshing and flavorful kick. This recipe combines the creamy texture of coleslaw with the unmistakable zing of dill pickles, creating a truly addictive dish.

My inspiration came from a love of both coleslaw and dill pickles. I wanted to find a way to combine these two favorites into one delicious side dish. The result is a coleslaw that’s both familiar and exciting, with a unique flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit.

I also wanted a recipe that was quick, easy, and adaptable. This coleslaw comes together in minutes, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. It’s a great way to use up leftover pickles or add a pickle-y twist to your next meal.

It is also a great way to eat more veggies.

Nostalgic Appeal

Coleslaw, for many, evokes feelings of summer barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. It’s a classic side dish that’s often associated with warm weather and casual meals.

Dill pickles, too, have a nostalgic appeal, reminding us of deli sandwiches, burger toppings, and simple, satisfying snacks.

This Dill Pickle Coleslaw combines those nostalgic elements, offering a way to enjoy two familiar flavors in a new and exciting way. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any occasion.

The dill flavor, is a must.

Homemade Focus

This recipe emphasizes the homemade element, even though it uses a pre-made coleslaw mix for convenience. We’re making a flavorful dressing from scratch, chopping fresh dill and red onion, and combining everything to create a truly delicious and unique coleslaw.

I believe that even simple side dishes, like coleslaw, are best when made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a little bit of care. Taking the time to make your own dressing and chop the vegetables makes a big difference in the overall flavor and texture.

The homemade dressing is the key to this recipe. It’s a simple combination of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, but it creates a creamy, tangy, and savory dressing that perfectly complements the coleslaw mix and pickles.

The all process, is very easy.

Flavor Goal

The primary flavor goal for this Dill Pickle Coleslaw is to achieve a balance of creamy, tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, with a crisp and refreshing texture.

The coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots) provides the base of the slaw, offering a slightly sweet and crunchy texture.

The finely chopped dill pickles add that signature tangy, salty, and slightly sour flavor that defines dill pickles.

The fresh dill (or dried dill) enhances the dill pickle flavor and adds a bright, herbaceous note.

The finely chopped red onion adds a touch of sharpness and a bit of crunch.

The homemade dressing ties everything together with its creamy, tangy, and savory flavor. The mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) provides creaminess, the pickle juice adds tanginess and extra pickle flavor, the Dijon mustard adds a bit of sharpness, and the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt enhance the other flavors.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients:

• Coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots): Provides the base of the coleslaw. You can use a pre-made coleslaw mix for convenience, or shred your own cabbage and carrots.
• Dill pickles, finely chopped: The star of the show! Adds that signature tangy, salty, and slightly sour flavor. Use your favorite brand of dill pickles.
• Fresh dill, chopped (or dried dill): Enhances the dill pickle flavor and adds a bright, herbaceous note. Fresh dill is always best, but dried dill can be used in a pinch.
• Red onion, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sharpness and a bit of crunch.
• Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt): Provides the base of the dressing, adding creaminess and richness. Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier version.
• Pickle juice (from your favorite dill pickles): Adds tanginess and extra pickle flavor to the dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of sharpness and complexity to the dressing.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt: These spices enhance the flavor of the dressing and balance the sweetness.

Essential Equipment

You will need these tools:

• Large bowl: For combining the coleslaw ingredients.
• Small bowl: For whisking together the dressing.
• Whisk: For making the dressing.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the pickles, dill, and red onion.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.

List of Ingredients

Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need, with precise measurements:

• 4 cups coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots)
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 3 tablespoons pickle juice (from your favorite dill pickles)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Coleslaw Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, finely chopped dill pickles, chopped fresh dill (or dried dill), and finely chopped red onion.

Step 3: Combine Dressing and Coleslaw

Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture.

Toss well to combine, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the Dill Pickle Coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill.

Serve chilled as a side dish alongside BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, or as a refreshing snack. Garnish with extra pickles, if desired.

Enjoy this tangy, crunchy, and flavorful twist on classic coleslaw!

Troubleshooting

Here are some potential issues and how to address them:

Problem: My coleslaw is too watery.

Solution: Make sure you’ve drained the coleslaw mix (if using pre-made) or shredded cabbage and carrots thoroughly. You can also salt the shredded cabbage and let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then rinse and dry it before using.

Problem: My dressing is too thick.

Solution: Add a little more pickle juice or a tablespoon of water at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.

Problem: My dressing is too thin.

Solution: Add a bit more mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), a tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing thickens.

Problem: My coleslaw is too bland.

Solution: Add more salt, pepper, or pickle juice to taste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Problem: My coleslaw is too pickle-y.

Solution: Add some shredded cabbage.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to customize your Dill Pickle Coleslaw:

Tip: For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients, especially for the pickles and mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt).

Tip: To save time, you can use a pre-made coleslaw mix.

Variation: Add other vegetables to the coleslaw, such as:

• Shredded green cabbage
• Shredded purple cabbage
• Diced celery
• Diced bell peppers

Variation: Add a spicy element, such as:

• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• A dash of hot sauce
• Diced jalapeños

Variation: Add a touch of sweetness by adding a teaspoon of sugar or maple syrup to the dressing.

Variation: Use different types of pickles, such as:

• Spicy pickles
• Sweet pickles
• Bread and butter pickles (this will create a sweeter coleslaw)
• Half-sour pickles Variation: Add some crumbled bacon (for non vegan).

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Dill Pickle Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Serve alongside BBQ: It’s a perfect pairing for pulled pork, ribs, brisket, or any grilled meats.
• Serve with burgers and sandwiches: It adds a tangy crunch to your favorite burgers and sandwiches.
• Serve with fish tacos: The tanginess of the coleslaw complements fish tacos beautifully.
• Serve as a topping for hot dogs or sausages.
• Serve as a side dish for fried chicken or fish.
• Serve it on a buffet

Nutritional Information

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary. Exact figures depend on specific brands and preparations.

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 200-250 (if using mayonnaise), 150-200 (if using Greek yogurt)
• Fat: 15-20g (if using mayonnaise), 5-10g (if using Greek yogurt)
• Saturates: 2-5g
• Protein: 2-4g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 5-8g
• Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on the pickles and salt added)

This Dill Pickle Coleslaw is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of fiber. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces the fat content and adds extra protein.

Print

Recipe Summary and Q&A

Let’s recap the recipe and address some frequently asked questions:

Recipe Summary: We made Dill Pickle Coleslaw by whisking together a dressing (mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper), combining coleslaw mix, chopped pickles, fresh dill, and red onion in a large bowl, and tossing everything together with the dressing.

Q&A:

Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

A: Yes, this coleslaw is even better when made ahead of time! It allows the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?

A: Yes, you can use dried dill, but fresh dill provides the best flavor. If using dried dill, use about 1 teaspoon.

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of pickle juice in the dressing?

A: The pickle juice is key to the “dill pickle” flavor of this coleslaw. However, in a pinch, you could substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but you’ll lose some of that signature pickle flavor.

Q: I don’t like mayonnaise. Can I use something else? A: yes, use plain yogurt. Q: How can i store the leftover?