Cathy’s Refreshing Refrigerator Slaw 🥬🥕

This delightful Refrigerator Slaw is a vibrant and crunchy dish that’s sure to brighten up any meal! Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or simply as a healthy side dish at home. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a great make-ahead option. And the best part? It stays fresh and tasty in the fridge for days!

Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a topping for sandwiches. It’s a versatile dish that will impress your friends and family! 🍴✨

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 1 medium head of cabbage, finely chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and grated
• 2 red sweet peppers, diced
• 2 green sweet peppers, diced
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp celery seed

For the Sweet Vinegar Bath

• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2½ cups sugar

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables:

   • Grind or chop the cabbage, carrots, sweet peppers, and onions finely.

2. Soak the Slaw:

   • Combine all chopped veggies and add 2 teaspoons of celery seed.
   • Soak in salt water for about 2 hours, then drain well.

🌊 Soaking in salt water not only enhances flavor but helps to soften the veggies, making them more enjoyable!

3. Make the Sweet Vinegar Bath:

   • In a separate bowl, mix together 2 cups of white vinegar and 2½ cups of sugar until fully dissolved.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Pour the sweet vinegar mixture over the drained veggies.

5. Chill:

   • Transfer to a crock or a covered container and let it stand in the refrigerator for at least a few hours. The longer it sits, the better the flavors will develop!

🕒 Plan to let your slaw sit overnight for optimal flavor fusion! It really does get better with time!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat! 🌶️
• Fruity Twist: Toss in some diced apples or pears for a sweet and refreshing twist!
• Crunch Factor: Incorporate some sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for added texture.
• Low Sugar: Substitute sugar with a natural sweetener such as honey or agave syrup for a healthier option.

Enjoy making and serving this colorful, crunchy delight that Cathy swears "gets better the longer it sets"! It’s a staple that never goes out of style!