What to do with Leftover Coleslaw (2024)

If you often find yourself with extra coleslaw after a meal or event, you're in the right place. I'm sharing innovative and mouthwatering ideas to help you make the most of your leftover coleslaw. From incorporating it into sandwiches and wraps to using it as a topping for tacos or as a side dish with a creative twist, we'll explore a variety of ways to transform that surplus slaw into something delicious and exciting. Get ready to elevate your leftovers and discover new ways to enjoy coleslaw like never before!

What to do with Leftover Coleslaw

Leftover coleslaw can be used in various creative ways instead of letting it go to waste. Here are some suggestions:

Sandwiches and Wraps: Coleslaw can make a delicious addition to sandwiches and wraps. Use it as a filling along with other ingredients like roasted chicken, pulled pork, or grilled vegetables. It adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor to your meal.

Tacos and Quesadillas: Coleslaw can be a fantastic topping for tacos or a filling for quesadillas. Add it to your favorite protein, such as grilled fish, shrimp, or shredded beef, for a zesty twist.

Buddha Bowls: Create a healthy and colorful Buddha bowl by adding leftover coleslaw as a base. Top it with your choice of protein, such as grilled tofu or chicken, and other ingredients like avocado, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Stir-fries: Incorporate coleslaw into stir-fried dishes. Its crunchiness and tangy dressing can complement stir-fried vegetables, tofu, or shrimp. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture.

Sliders and Burgers: Upgrade your sliders and burgers by adding a layer of coleslaw on top. It adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the meat or veggie patty.

Salads: Combine your leftover coleslaw with additional greens, such as lettuce or spinach, to create a new salad. Add some protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, and dress it with a vinaigrette or your favorite dressing.

Pizza Topping: Use coleslaw as a unique pizza topping. Spread it over your pizza dough, along with other ingredients like cheese, bacon, or sliced tomatoes. Bake it until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Side Dish: Serve the leftover coleslaw as a side dish with your main meals. It goes well with grilled meats, barbecue dishes, or even fried chicken.

Remember to store the leftover coleslaw properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. If you're not able to use it within a few days, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers for future use.

Coleslaw Recipe

This recipe creates a classic and tangy old-fashioned coleslaw using vinegar for a flavorful twist.

Different Types of Coleslaw

Coleslaw comes in various types and flavors, catering to different preferences and culinary traditions. Here are some popular types of coleslaw:

Classic Creamy Coleslaw: This is the most common type of coleslaw, featuring shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy dressing typically made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and spices.

Vinegar-Based Coleslaw: This type of coleslaw uses a vinegar-based dressing rather than a creamy one. It has a tangy flavor profile and often includes ingredients like vinegar, oil, sugar, and various seasonings.

Spicy Coleslaw: For those who enjoy some heat, spicy coleslaw incorporates ingredients like jalapenos, hot sauce, or chili flakes to add a kick to the traditional coleslaw recipe.

Asian Slaw: Inspired by Asian cuisine, this coleslaw typically combines shredded cabbage with ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sometimes includes additional elements like mandarin oranges or crushed peanuts.

Fruit Coleslaw: This variation includes fruits like apples, pineapple, or raisins, which add sweetness and a refreshing twist to the traditional coleslaw recipe. It's often paired with a creamy dressing or a vinaigrette.

Apple Cider Coleslaw: Apple cider vinegar is used as a primary ingredient in the dressing for this coleslaw variation, imparting a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

Yogurt Coleslaw: Instead of mayonnaise, this healthier version of coleslaw uses yogurt as the base for its creamy dressing, offering a lighter and tangier option.

Kale Coleslaw: A modern take on coleslaw, this version replaces or combines cabbage with kale, providing additional nutritional value and a slightly different flavor profile.

These are just a few examples, and coleslaw recipes can vary widely depending on personal preferences, regional variations, and creative culinary adaptations.