coleslaw with buttermilk recipe
The Best coleslaw with buttermilk recipe
I’ve been making coleslaw with buttermilk for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The recipe is a classic American side dish that originated in the Midwest, where it was served at farm-to-table dinners and picnics.
The tangy flavor of the buttermilk perfectly complements the crunch of the cabbage and the sweetness of the onions. I like to make it ahead of time so that the flavors can meld together – it’s one of those recipes that’s even better the next day.
My kids love helping me make it, too, because they get to use a real vegetable shredder to shred the cabbage into tiny pieces. It’s a great way to get them involved in cooking and to teach them about different textures and flavors in food.
We often serve this coleslaw at family gatherings and barbecues, where it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I think part of its appeal is that it’s both healthy and comforting at the same time – you can feel good about serving it to your family while also enjoying its rich, creamy flavor.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just shred some cabbage, mix in some mayonnaise, buttermilk, and spices, and you’re good to go! I like to use a combination of green and red cabbage for a pop of color on the plate, but you can use either one or a mix of both – whatever looks pretty to you.
One thing I will say is that you’ll want to make sure you have enough coleslaw for everyone at your gathering, because people will be going back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!) It’s also great for packing lunches or snacks throughout the week – just portion it out into individual containers and refrigerate until ready to eat.

Buttermilk Coleslaw
A creamy, tangy coleslaw made with a buttermilk dressing. This side dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or alongside fried chicken.
🥘Ingredients
For the Dressing
For the Slaw
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Buttermilk Coleslaw Works
This coleslaw with buttermilk recipe is one that I’ll always recommend for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick side dish for a weeknight meal.
It’s easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve.
You can also customize it by adding in other ingredients like chopped carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Coleslaw
Q1: What type of cabbage should I use for this recipe?
This recipe works best with a mix of green and red cabbage – but if you can only find one type, either will do just fine!
Q2: Can I substitute mayonnaise with another type of creamy condiment?
While mayonnaise is traditional in this recipe, you can definitely try substituting it with another creamy condiment like sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Q3: How do I prevent my coleslaw from becoming too soggy?
The key is to not over-mix your coleslaw after adding the buttermilk – you want it to still be slightly crunchy.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, coleslaw tastes even better after being refrigerated overnight.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
This recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly.