31 Deliciously Easy Coleslaw Recipes for Summer BBQs and Picnics

Sandra Walker

September 10, 2025

Naturally, summertime barbecues and picnics are not complete without a refreshing side dish like coleslaw recipes. This classic condiment is not only healthy but also versatile, making it a perfect accompaniment to any occasion. Numerous variations of coleslaw can be created at home with the simplest ingredients you already have on hand. The best part? It takes no more than 10 minutes to prepare your delicious coleslaw and get ready for a mouth-watering meal.

Coleslaw pairs exceptionally well with cold sandwiches and grilled meats, and you can even make it ahead of time. If you’re familiar with various slaw recipes, your BBQs and picnics will never be the same again. Notably, there are different types of coleslaw that cater to individual tastes and preferences. To find the best coleslaw recipe for your last-minute side dish, keep reading to discover a wealth of options and ideas.

KFC Coleslaw Recipe

KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Whether you’re a fan of Kentucky Fried Chicken or just love their coleslaw, you’ll be happy to know that you can easily recreate this popular side dish at home with our simple KFC Coleslaw Recipe. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, summer BBQs, and picnics, as it’s easy to transport and serve in large quantities. It’s also my all-time favorite side dish, with a delicious balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors that taste just like the real thing from KFC!

What sets this recipe apart is its ease and speed – it can be made in just a few minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or busy summer days. Additionally, you can even prepare it ahead of time for the next day, saving you even more time and effort.

Creamy Coleslaw

Creamy Coleslaw

Understanding that some people may be looking for alternative coleslaw recipes, the Creamy Coleslaw is a great place to start. This classic recipe combines carrots and shredded cabbage, reducing prep time significantly. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or potlucks when you need something quick and easy to serve your family. The creamy coleslaw also makes a fantastic side dish for outdoor gatherings like picnics and barbecues.

One of the best things about coleslaw is that it’s an American staple made with readily available ingredients. Its ease of preparation and perfect balance of flavors make it a favorite among many, including home cooks.

Vinegar Coleslaw Recipe

Vinegar Coleslaw Recipe

Pondering the idea of mayonnaise in coleslaw? If that’s you, then you’ll be delighted to know about the Vinegar Coleslaw Recipe (No Mayo Coleslaw) that offers a refreshing twist. This recipe is specifically designed for those who dislike mayonnaise and are searching for an alternative. By combining green cabbage, carrots, onions, and vinegar, this coleslaw achieves a perfect balance of flavors – tangy without being overly sweet.

The result is a delicious accompaniment to your favorite BBQ dishes such as ribs, chicken, or even sweet potatoes.

Classic Southern Coleslaw

Classic Southern Coleslaw

Combining the flavors of summer with the simplicity of a classic recipe, coleslaw is an ideal accompaniment to any outdoor gathering. The perfect pairing for smoky BBQ meats, this cold and tangy coleslaw complements the rich flavors of grilled meats beautifully. The combination of sugar and lemon juice in this classic coleslaw creates a sweet and bright flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more.

Its creamy texture and crisp undertones make it a versatile side dish that pairs well with pulled pork, grilled chicken, or as a topping for your favorite burgers.

Asian Coleslaw

Asian Coleslaw

Diversifying your coleslaw options can add excitement to mealtimes. Discover how the Asian Coleslaw recipe can elevate your BBQ meats, burgers, and other Asian-inspired dishes with its unique flavors and textures. Not only is it a great accompaniment to grilled shrimp and fish, but also a light and refreshing side dish perfect for hot summer days or weeknight family dinners. This coleslaw’s bright crunch makes it a healthy alternative that’s easy to prepare in no time.

To make this Asian-inspired coleslaw, you’ll need just a few key ingredients: cabbage, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, roasted peanuts, and peanut butter for the dressing.

Popeye’s Cole Slaw

Popeye’s Cole Slaw

Revamping your coleslaw game is easier than you think, especially when you can make a Popeye’s-inspired Cole Slaw at home. This side dish is not only delicious but also pairs perfectly with fried chicken, pork, and turkey, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Unlike many commercial slaws on the market, Popeye’s Cole Slaw stands out for its unique flavor profile that doesn’t rely on lemon juice or buttermilk.

Instead, the combination of mayonnaise and sugar creates a creamy and sweet taste experience that will leave you wanting more. To achieve this perfect blend, simply mix all the ingredients together and refrigerate it for at least two hours before serving. For even better results, try leaving it overnight – the flavors will meld together beautifully, making it an ideal potluck side dish that’s sure to impress.

Ramen Coleslaw

Ramen Coleslaw

Having tried numerous slaw recipes, it’s likely you’ll fall in love with the Ramen Coleslaw, especially if you’re looking for a break from traditional mayonnaise-based versions. A key aspect of creating an exceptional slaw is incorporating crunchy elements, such as toasted almonds, Ramen noodles, and sesame seeds. By doing so, the texture becomes more appealing and the dressing’s impact is minimized, preventing a soggy coleslaw outcome.

If toasting isn’t feasible, you can still achieve a satisfying crunch by adding the dressing to the ingredients just before serving.

Sweet Coleslaw

Sweet Coleslaw

Ditching soggy coleslaw for good can be a game-changer, especially when it comes to BBQs. This Sweet Coleslaw recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic side dish, providing a perfect balance of crunch and tanginess that will win over even the most discerning skeptics. With its creamy texture courtesy of a mayo-based dressing, this Southern-style slaw is an instant favorite among BBQ enthusiasts, who appreciate the subtle nuances of vinegar, sugar, and celery seeds.

What sets this recipe apart from others is the addition of either celery salt or celery seeds, which gives it that extra oomph to elevate the dish to new heights. Best of all, preparation time is a speedy 5 minutes or less, making it an ideal side dish for any BBQ gathering.

NYTimes Spicy Coleslaw

NYTimes Spicy Coleslaw

Let’s be honest, who wants to settle for boring coleslaw when you can ignite your taste buds with a spicy version? The good news is that making this spicy coleslaw is incredibly simple, requiring only a handful of ingredients. This versatile side dish is perfect for any occasion, and I must admit that I couldn’t get enough of it after trying it out for the first time.

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility – you can make it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then pair it with your favorite dishes like ribs, fried chicken, or any other summer feast.

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Elevate your summertime barbecues with this easy-to-make Red Cabbage Coleslaw recipe that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. With fewer than 10 ingredients, you can prepare this delicious side dish in no time and enjoy a far superior taste compared to store-bought coleslaws. The unique combination of flavors is owed to the presence of celery salt, a secret ingredient that adds depth to the slaw without overpowering it.

This creamy red cabbage slaw achieves the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes. Simply prepare large quantities of the homemade coleslaw and refrigerate for later use, making it an ideal addition to your outdoor gatherings and potlucks.

Simple Healthy Slaw

Simple Healthy Slaw

Generally speaking, coleslaw is a staple side dish that accompanies most meals. I’m particularly fond of preparing the Simple Healthy Slaw because its vegan and gluten-free properties make it accessible to a wide range of dietary needs. The key components of this slaw are its simple yet effective lemon dressing, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and toasted sunflower seeds, which collectively create an incredible taste experience.

This vibrant coleslaw is not only bursting with flavors but also boasts several health benefits. One of the notable advantages of this recipe is that it doesn’t contain any mayonnaise, sugar, or vinegar, making it a great option for those who prefer healthier alternatives. The freshly toasted seeds add a satisfying savory flavor and extra texture, elevating the overall experience.

Italian Style Coleslaw

Italian Style Coleslaw

Combining traditional Italian flavors with the classic coleslaw recipe, this unique variation stands out from others. Unlike many coleslaw recipes that rely on mayonnaise for creaminess, this one uses vinegar and olive oil instead. The result is a refreshing, light, and tangy side dish perfect for warm weather gatherings. If you’re looking for a coleslaw recipe without mayo, then this Italian-style slaw is an ideal choice.

Its simplicity is part of its charm, allowing the bold flavors to shine through. What’s even better is that it improves with time, becoming more flavorful after spending a night in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for preparing ahead when hosting guests or attending outdoor events like summer barbecues.

Easy Pineapple Coleslaw

Easy Pineapple Coleslaw

Just imagine elevating your coleslaw game by adding a sweet and tangy twist, courtesy of juicy pineapples. This simple yet effective addition transforms the traditional coleslaw recipe into a flavor sensation that will transport you to summer all year round. The best part? You can use canned pineapples, making it possible to enjoy this delicious side dish regardless of the season. Pair it with a mouth-watering chicken burger or pulled pork sandwich for a match made in heaven.

This recipe is sure to become a staple at your backyard BBQs and will add a tropical touch to your menu.

Classic Memphis-Style Coleslaw

Classic Memphis-Style Coleslaw

Delightful gatherings require the perfect side dish, and that’s where our Classic Memphis-Style Coleslaw comes in. This mouthwatering recipe is not only ideal for BBQs but also pairs exquisitely with grilled or smoked meats. Its versatility allows it to be easily incorporated into various sandwiches, making it a great addition to any meal. The harmonious balance of vinegar and sugar creates a delightful taste experience that will keep you wanting more throughout the entire summer season.

Apple Coleslaw

Apple Coleslaw

You’ll enjoy a simple homemade coleslaw with an effortless dressing that’s hard to beat. The Apple coleslaw is perfect if you’re looking for something vegetarian and gluten-free – a great option for those with dietary restrictions. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with crunchy veggies in a deliciously balanced dressing, making it a fantastic accompaniment to any meal.

The creamy mayo-based coleslaw is an ideal side dish for a classic roast pork dinner or as a topping for sandwiches. To get the full flavor potential out of this coleslaw recipe, refrigerate it for at least one hour before serving to allow all the flavors to meld together. Give this recipe a try at home and we’re sure you’ll be delighted by the results – your family and friends will love it.

Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

Lifting the limitations of traditional mayonnaise-based coleslaws, this recipe offers a healthier alternative that’s quick to prepare, taking only about 5 minutes. The absence of mayo makes it super delicious, lighter, and perfectly creamy, creating a delightful texture experience. Combining crunchy carrots with crisp cabbage and the dressing yields a classic flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This homemade Greek yoghurt coleslaw is versatile, pairing well with burgers, hot dogs, tacos, and your favorite summertime grilling dishes.

Tangy Horseradish Coleslaw

Tangy Horseradish Coleslaw

Elevate your mealtime with a classic coleslaw recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbeques. The Tangy Horseradish Coleslaw is an excellent choice, as it can be prepared in just 15 minutes using simple and stable ingredients. What sets this coleslaw apart from others is its unique flavor profile, which is achieved by combining herbs and mustard.

Whether you’re serving grilled meats, such as barbecued chicken or pork cuts, or Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like Chicken Shwarma, this coleslaw pairs well with a variety of options.

Mango Cilantro Slaw

Mango Cilantro Slaw

Creating this Mango Cilantro Slaw is a breeze, thanks to its simplicity and delicious flavor profile. What sets it apart from other slaws is the absence of added sugar. The harmonious union of mango and cilantro lends a sweet taste that will leave you craving more. You can enjoy this coleslaw on its own as a side dish or top it on grilled tilapia for a mouthwatering fish taco experience. If you prefer your coleslaw thicker, simply add more mayonnaise to achieve the desired consistency.

As summer approaches, this slaw is sure to become a staple in your household, especially if you’re a fan of making fish or chicken tacos for your loved ones.

Chinese Coleslaw

Chinese Coleslaw

Highlighting the versatility of Chinese coleslaw as a side dish during summer is a great way to impress your family. Although this particular recipe may not be a traditional component of Chinese cuisine, it has been expertly crafted with a blend of flavors and textures that are sure to delight. To take it to the next level, simply toss it with Asian sesame dressing and top it off with salty sesame sticks and sliced almonds for an unforgettable crunch.

Vegan Coleslaw

Vegan Coleslaw

Summers never end without a backyard barbeque party, where the celebration is incomplete without an array of delicious dishes. Side dishes, desserts, and cocktails are inevitable at such gatherings, and they set the tone for a fun-filled evening. Specifically, The Vegan Coleslaw makes a perfect side dish for all summer parties, barbecues, and potlucks. This light, healthy, and flavorful coleslaw can be made in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal addition to any get-together.

What’s more, the homemade version tastes significantly better than store-bought options, and its preparation is surprisingly easy. Consequently, you can enjoy this tasty dish all year round, pairing it with a variety of foods to suit your taste.

20 Best Coleslaw Recipes

Detailed below are the recipe’s essential details, which include a preparation time of 10 minutes and a total time of 10 minutes. This dish is categorized under the ‘Recipe Roundup’ course and falls within the American cuisine category. It serves six people in its current form.

Instructions

Refrigeration plays a crucial role in allowing the flavors of the dressing to meld with the coleslaw ingredients. To achieve this, combine the coleslaw ingredients in a large mixing bowl and set aside for now. Next, add the remaining ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until they are thoroughly incorporated. The key is to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed, so take your time if necessary. Once the dressing has been prepared, it’s time to bring everything together.

Toss the coleslaw mix in the dressing to coat evenly, making sure each piece is generously coated. Finally, refrigerate the slaw until you’re ready to serve.

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