Coleslaw is a staple when it comes to outdoor barbecues and picnics. Whenever I have to make some coleslaw, I make sure to buy the biggest cabbage head I can lay my hands on. As always, though, there’s leftover coleslaw at the end of the day. How can I keep the coleslaw stored correctly so it won’t go to waste?
When preparing food for a large group of people, we tend to overestimate the amount we make. Since coleslaw is a simple dish to prepare, it is easy to end up with so much more than you can eat. Thankfully, you can store your extra coleslaw in the freezer.
You can freeze coleslaw, but make sure to check the dressing that comes with it. Mayonnaise-based dressing is discouraged since freezing this kind of dressing causes it to separate. The coleslaw may also lose its crunchiness when using a mayonnaise-based dressing. Other dressings, such as those made from vinegar and oil, are preferred when freezing coleslaw.
Can You Freeze Coleslaw?
Frozen coleslaw will never be as fresh and crunchy as the original batch. Freezing can preserve some of the flavor and texture, but it is always best to serve the slaw freshly made.
Add flavor to coleslaw by using seasonings that are not affected by freezing, such as celery seed, mustard seed and lemon pepper. You can use these with both vinegar- and oil-based dressing.
Freezing coleslaw already mixed with mayonnaise-based dressing will cause a rougher texture and a change in flavor. You can opt to freeze the coleslaw and dressing separately for better results.
It only takes a month in the freezer to change the flavor and texture of the coleslaw. The vegetables often seep moisture into the slaw, making the end result watery.
Coleslaw with vinegar-based dressing will remain fresher for a longer period. The vinegar, and other spices, act as preservatives to the shredded cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables in the coleslaw.
After thawing, keep the coleslaw at an even cool temperature to maintain its quality. It is best consumed within three days. To ensure your safety, do not refreeze the coleslaw that has already been defrosted.
How to Freeze Coleslaw
For coleslaw that is either dry or already mixed with any type of dressing, the following steps describe how to store it correctly inside the freezer.
- First, place the chopped vegetables inside a plastic zipping freezer bag. Make sure to remove excess air from the bag.
- Next, check that the bag is tightly sealed. Label the bag with the date of preparation.
- Stack the freezer bags in layers inside the freezer. Try to make the bags as flat as possible.
- Defrost coleslaw within a few months then consume within three days of defrosting.
- When you need to use the coleslaw, move the bag from the freezer to the refrigerator then thaw overnight.
- If the coleslaw was dry when frozen, add the dressing once the coleslaw has been defrosted. The ingredients should be cool and crunchy.
- Avoid reheating; serve it as a cold dish, instead.
Now you can enjoy coleslaw with all sorts of dishes, with nearly no preparation time.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a classic summertime dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what do you do when you have extra coleslaw? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover coleslaw:
- Make a sandwich – Coleslaw makes a great addition to any sandwich. Just add it in with your other favorite sandwich ingredients, and you’ve got a delicious meal in no time.
- Use it as a taco filling – Coleslaw can also be used as a taco filling. Just add it to your tacos along with some shredded cheese and diced tomatoes, and you’ve got a tasty and healthy meal in no time.
- Use it as a salad topping – Coleslaw can also be used as a salad topping. Just add it to your favorite salad for a flavorful and healthy dish.
- Use it as a dip – Coleslaw can also be used as a dip for chips or vegetables. Simply add some sour cream and spices, and you’ve got a delicious and healthy snack in no time.
- Make coleslaw wraps – Coleslaw wraps are a great way to use up leftover coleslaw. Just add some coleslaw to a tortilla wrap with your other favorite fillings, and you’ve got a tasty and easy meal in no time.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover coleslaw. Next time you find yourself with extra coleslaw, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Coleslaw Recipes
Add veggies to a light snack with the Chicken Sandwich with Coleslaw recipe. Pair with crispy fries for a wonderful blend of flavors and textures.
For a nautical feel, make Shrimp Tacos with Pico De Gallo and serve coleslaw on the side. This filling meal is sure to satisfy your seafood craving!
Coleslaw is not only for appetizers and side dishes, but for main courses as well! Make some Sticky Beef Ribs & Slaw to serve up during the holidays.
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze coleslaw! Frozen slaw will last for up to six months in the freezer. To freeze coleslaw for later use, follow these easy steps: 1) Chop all vegetables and place them inside a plastic zipping freezer bag with any dressing of your choice; 2) Make sure that the bag is tightly sealed then label it with the date of preparation; 3) Stack frozen bags on top of one another in layers within your freezer compartment or shelf space. To thaw, move from freezer to refrigerator overnight.
