Creamy Homemade Coleslaw Dressing Recipe

This creamy, flavorful homemade coleslaw dressing will take your coleslaw, broccoli slaw, or broccoli salad to the next level. It comes together in under 5 minutes using just a few simple ingredients, and it’s easy to adapt to be dairy-free or mayo-free.

For years I avoided coleslaw because many store-bought dressings felt heavy and bland. After experimenting, I developed this simple, balanced coleslaw dressing that is creamy, tangy and lightly sweet. It has become a staple in my weekly meal prep and pairs beautifully with shredded cabbage, broccoli slaw, or roasted vegetables.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Creamy, slightly sweet and tangy — a perfect match for classic coleslaw, broccoli salad and other slaws.
• Made with just a few pantry ingredients and ready in about five minutes.
• Easy to customize: swap classic mayo for Greek yogurt for a no-mayo version, or use vegan mayo to keep it plant-based.

Recipe ingredients

This dressing uses just a handful of ingredients that you can swap based on preference or what you have on hand.

Ingredient notes

• Mayo: Avocado oil mayo is a healthy choice and gives good flavor and texture. You can use regular mayonnaise, vegan mayo, or substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, no-mayo option.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds bright, sweet-tart flavor. If necessary, white vinegar or white balsamic vinegar can be used as substitutes.
• Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness and depth. Honey or another favorite liquid sweetener can be used instead.

How to make this dressing

This dressing is incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or batch prepping for the week.

Tip: Use whichever mayo you prefer. Avocado oil mayo is a nutritious option, but classic or vegan mayo both work well.

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl or a wide-mouth jar.
2. Whisk or shake until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe notes

• Make it no-mayo: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dressing.
• Customize the flavor by adding poppy seeds, celery seeds, curry powder or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
• Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to two weeks. Stir or shake before using if separation occurs.

How to serve this dressing

Toss shredded cabbage, a pre-made coleslaw mix, broccoli slaw, or bite-sized broccoli florets with the dressing. It also pairs well with shredded fennel, apple slaw, kale slaw with dried fruit and nuts, or shaved Brussels sprout salads for added creaminess and flavor.

• Broccoli salad variations and classic creamy coleslaw are great matches.
• Try it on shaved Brussels sprout salad or kale slaw with apples and cranberries for a seasonal twist.

More dressing ideas you’ll enjoy

• Apple cider vinaigrette
• Balsamic vinaigrette
• Greek dressing
• Honey mustard
• Lemon vinaigrette

Did you try this recipe? If so, please leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media so I can see what you made.