I remember the first time I tasted Jimmy’s coleslaw. The creamy and tangy dressing was the perfect match for the crisp cabbage and carrots. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to recreate that magic at home.
After some trial and error, I finally perfected this copycat recipe. It’s simple to make with ingredients you likely have in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just craving a fresh side dish, this dressing brings that classic flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Coleslaw
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Tools And Equipment
To master Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Copycat Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For finely shredding the cabbage and julienning the carrots with precision.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface to safely chop and prepare your vegetables.
- Mixing Bowl
Ideal for combining the coleslaw ingredients and dressing thoroughly.
- Whisk
Ensures the dressing ingredients blend smoothly for a creamy consistency.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Guarantees accurate measurements for consistent flavor every time.
- Large Salad Spinner (Optional)
Helps to dry shredded vegetables, preventing a watery coleslaw.
- Spatula or Tongs
Perfect for mixing and serving the coleslaw without bruising the vegetables.
Having these tools at hand will streamline your preparation process and help you achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality coleslaw right in your kitchen.
Instructions
Let’s dive into creating Jimmy’s signature coleslaw dressing and mixing it with crisp, fresh vegetables.
Prepare The Vegetables
- Shred the Cabbage
I start by finely shredding 4 cups of green cabbage and 2 cups of red cabbage using a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform texture.
- Julienne the Carrots
Next, I peel and julienne 2 medium carrots until they’re thin and match the size of the shredded cabbage for a consistent bite.
- Slice the Red Onion
I thinly slice 1 small red onion to add a subtle kick and vibrant color to the coleslaw.
- Chop the Parsley
Finally, I finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley to incorporate a hint of freshness and aroma.
Make The Dressing
- Combine the Base
In a mixing bowl, I whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweetness and Spice
I stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of celery seed, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, mixing thoroughly to ensure all flavors are well integrated.
- Adjust Consistency
If the dressing feels too thick, I add a tablespoon of water or additional apple cider vinegar to reach the desired creamy consistency.
Combine And Toss
- Mix Vegetables and Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the prepared shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. I then pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture.
- Toss Until Coated
Using salad tongs or clean hands, I toss the coleslaw gently but thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve
I refrigerate the coleslaw for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish to your favorite barbecue or meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Copycat Recipe ahead of time not only saves you time on the day of your event but also enhances the flavors. Here’s how I ensure my coleslaw is fresh and delicious when the time comes to serve it:
Shred Vegetables in Advance
I shred the green and red cabbage, julienne the carrots, and slice the red onion a day ahead. Storing them separately in airtight containers helps maintain their crispness.
Prepare the Dressing Early
Mix all the dressing ingredients the day before. Letting the dressing sit in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
Combine Just Before Serving
When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the shredded vegetables with the prepared dressing. This keeps the vegetables from becoming soggy and ensures each bite is perfectly coated.
Storage Guidelines
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Vegetables | Airtight containers, refrigerated | Up to 3 days |
| Dressing | Sealed container, refrigerated | Up to 1 week |
| Combined Coleslaw | Airtight container, refrigerated | Best within 24 hours |
Chill for Optimal Flavor
I always let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend seamlessly, making each bite more flavorful.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using the freshest cabbage, carrots, and parsley ensures my coleslaw stays vibrant and crunchy, even when prepared ahead of time.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Copycat Recipe with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your dining experience with Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Copycat Recipe is a delight I relish every time. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this creamy, crunchy side that perfectly complements a variety of dishes:
Classic Barbecue Side
Nothing beats the tangy crunch of coleslaw alongside grilled meats. Whether you’re smoking ribs, grilling chicken, or searing steaks, a generous serving of this coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors.
Perfect Burger and Sandwich Topping
Enhance your burgers and sandwiches by layering them with a scoop of coleslaw. It adds a vibrant texture and zesty flavor that transforms a simple sandwich into a gourmet delight. Try it on a pulled pork sandwich or a classic cheeseburger for an extra kick.
Fresh Taco and Wrap Add-On
Add a tangy crunch to your tacos and wraps by incorporating a handful of coleslaw. It pairs exceptionally well with fish tacos, chicken wraps, or veggie burritos, providing a light and crunchy balance to the savory fillings.
Crisp Salad Base
Use the coleslaw as a base for a hearty salad. Combine it with grilled vegetables, avocado slices, and your favorite protein for a satisfying meal. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy dressing without overpowering the flavors.
Picnic and Potluck Favorite
This coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser at picnics and potlucks. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it an ideal side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Prepare it ahead of time and keep it chilled for easy serving.
Grain Bowl Enhancement
Top your grain bowls with a generous portion of coleslaw for added texture and flavor. It works wonderfully with bowls featuring quinoa, rice, or couscous, combined with roasted vegetables and a protein of your choice.
Baked Potato Companion
Serve a dollop of coleslaw alongside baked potatoes for a unique and tasty twist. The creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy potatoes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can enjoy Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Copycat Recipe in versatile and delicious ways that enhance your meals and impress your guests.
Conclusion
Recreating Jimmy’s coleslaw has been a fun experience for me. I love how the creamy dressing perfectly complements the crunch of the veggies.
Making this copycat recipe is simple and brings a touch of Jimmy’s to your own kitchen. Whether it’s for a barbecue or a quick meal side it never fails to impress.
Give it a try and share it with your friends and family. I’m sure they’ll ask for the recipe too!
