Captain D’s Coleslaw Recipe

You’re going to love making (and eating!) Captain D’s coleslaw recipe.

This creamy, tangy salad is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with fish or any meal. 

Using classic ingredients like shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, and vinegar brings out both the creamy and tangy notes. 

Here’s a tip:

Make sure to let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. 

How to Make Captain D’s Coleslaw Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups Cabbage (shredded)
• 1 cup Carrots (grated)
• 1/4 cup Onion (diced)
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1/4 cup Buttermilk
• 2 tbsp Sugar
• 2 tbsp White Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and diced onions.

Step 2:

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3:

Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetable mix, tossing everything well to coat.

Step 4:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

Step 5:

Stir the coleslaw before serving to refresh its consistency and chill.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Fresh Vegetables Matter

Use the freshest vegetables available for the best possible flavor and texture. Freshly shredded cabbage and carrots add a fun crunch to your finished dish.

Adjust the Sweetness

If you prefer your coleslaw less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or substitute with honey. Taste the dressing as you mix and adjust according to your preference.

Refrigerate for Flavor

Let your coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for the recommended time. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and enhances the overall dish.

Consistency is Key

Before serving, stir the coleslaw well. This ensures the creaminess is distributed evenly throughout and makes every bite delicious.

Experiment with Flavors

Add a little celery seed or mustard powder to your dressing for a unique twist. These ingredients can bring an interesting depth to the classic recipe.

What to Serve with Captain D’s Coleslaw

Fried Fish

Fried fish is a classic companion for coleslaw, particularly the creamy version served at Captain D’s.

The crunchy texture of fried fish beautifully complements the creamy and tangy coleslaw, creating a harmonious combination.

Whether you enjoy cod, haddock, or catfish, fried fish makes for a delicious pairing.

Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are another popular option that goes well with coleslaw.

The coleslaw adds freshness and crunch to the tacos and complements the flavors of the grilled or fried fish.

You can simply pile the coleslaw on top of the fish for an easy and tasty meal.

Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast or thighs are a more unexpected but tasty choice.

The smoky flavors from the grill pair nicely with the creamy coleslaw, while providing a lean protein option.

A hint of lemon or lime on the chicken can enhance the overall savoriness of the meal.

BBQ Ribs

Ribs covered in smoky barbecue sauce offer a bold contrast to the lightness of coleslaw.

The creamy dressing in the coleslaw helps to cool the spicy kick of the barbecue sauce.

This creates a sensational balance on your plate that you won’t want to miss.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes might surprise you, but they bring a gentle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with coleslaw’s tang.

Simply bake the sweet potatoes until tender, and serve them alongside the coleslaw for a nutrient-rich and satisfying arrangement.

It’s an unexpectedly great combo you’ll be glad you tried!

Variations and Substitutions

Cabbage Alternatives

You don’t have to stick to the classic green cabbage for your coleslaw.

Try using purple cabbage for a pop of color or even Napa cabbage for a milder taste.

Mixing different types of cabbage can also add a fun twist.

Dressing Modifications

Switching up the dressing is a great way to change the flavor profile of your coleslaw.

Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to make it lighter and tangier.

A dash of honey or maple syrup can add a sweet undertone that pairs brilliantly with the tanginess.

Adding Fruit

Incorporate fruits like apples or raisins for a sweet contrast to the creamy dressing.

Cranberries or pineapple chunks can also work for those who want a slightly tropical flair.

Finely chopped fruits can also bring freshness to your bowl.

Spice It Up

Introduce a bit of heat by adding chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.

This minor addition can transform your coleslaw, bringing a new level of excitement to it.

Play around with spice levels to suit your preference.

Herb Inclusions

Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the flavor.

These herbs can bring a refreshing taste that complements the creamy ingredients perfectly.

A sprinkle of herbs can turn an ordinary dish into something unique and personalized.

How to Store Leftover Coleslaw

When you find yourself with leftover Captain D’s coleslaw, storing it properly is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Use an airtight container, placing the coleslaw inside and sealing it tightly to prevent any air from altering its taste.

Avoid metal containers when storing coleslaw to prevent any unwanted reactions with the dressing ingredients over time.

Refrigeration Tips

Make sure your refrigerator is set below 40°F to keep the coleslaw fresh for a few days.

Consuming it within three to four days is optimal, as it tends to lose its crunch and creaminess afterward.

Freezing Advice

While I usually prefer fresh coleslaw, freezing can be an option for longer storage.

Portion it out into smaller containers or freezer bags for convenience.

When you decide to use it, thaw it in the fridge to bring back as much of its original texture as possible.

Check for Freshness

Before enjoying your stored coleslaw again, give it a quick check.

Look for any signs of spoilage like strange odors or off-colored dressing.

Using these steps, your coleslaw will stay tasty!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Too Much Dressing

The balance between cabbage and dressing is crucial for a perfect coleslaw.

If you add too much dressing, the coleslaw can end up soggy and lose its crunch.

Always add the dressing gradually and toss the coleslaw as you go to check the consistency.

Over-Chopping the Vegetables

Keep the vegetables crunchy by not chopping them too finely.

If the cabbage and carrots are over-chopped, they can lose their crisp texture, leaving you with a mushy mix.

Consistent, medium-sized pieces work best for a satisfying crunch in every bite!

Forgetting the Chill Time

Letting the coleslaw chill is a step you can’t skip.

If you skip the refrigeration time, the flavors won’t blend properly, and the coleslaw might lack that signature tangy taste.

Aim to chill your coleslaw for at least two hours before serving to bring all the flavors together.