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Classic Gluten-Free Coleslaw Recipe

Gathering friends and family for BBQ season is perfect with my homemade gluten-free coleslaw, a fresh, crunchy addition everyone will love.

It’s incredibly easy and cheap to make, using simple ingredients you can find in any shop, which makes it perfect for whipping up last minute or ahead of time.

Whether you’re serving it alongside your favourite grilled meats or as a zesty topping for burgers, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit at any summer get-together.

What you’ll love about this recipe

Perfect picnic partner – Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a casual lunch, gluten-free coleslaw keeps well and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or veggie dishes. It’s a classic side that never goes out of style.

A guilt-free indulgence – Since it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with fresh veggies, coleslaw feels like a treat that’s a bit kinder to your tummy. You get all the creamy goodness without the gluten fuss.

It’s wonderfully inclusive– Gluten-free coleslaw means everyone can tuck in without a worry, whether they’re gluten-sensitive or just fancy a lighter option. No one misses out, which is always a win at any gathering.

Crunchy and fresh– The crispness of the cabbage and carrots combined with a tangy dressing is just so refreshing. It’s a brilliant way to add some vibrant texture and zing to your meal.

Homemade magic – Making your own gluten-free coleslaw means you can tweak the flavours just how you like them – a bit more mustard here, a touch of sweetness there. Plus, it’s a doddle to whip up, especially if you’re already in the kitchen crafting other gluten-free treats like BBQ sauce or cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 small white cabbage
• 4 carrots
• 1 large red onion
• 1 tbsp gluten-free mustard (I used Dijon mustard)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• a few pinches of smoked paprika
• Fresh herbs

Instructions

• Remove the outer leaves of the white cabbage and remove the hard inner core.
• Thinly slice the white cabbage either by hand or by using a food processor.
• Coarsely grate the carrots and finely chop the red onion.
• Put all the prepared vegetables into a large bowl.
• Put together the dressing, whisk the mayonnaise, mustard, herbs and vinegar together in a small jug.
• Tip the dressing into the bowl and mix all the ingredients. Sprinkle with the paprika and serve straight away.

What to serve with Gluten-Free Coleslaw?

Gluten-free coleslaw is such a versatile side, and there are plenty of delicious dishes you can serve alongside it to make a cracking meal.

Grilled or barbecued meats: Think juicy ribs, pork tenderloin, or marinated chicken thighs. The creamy crunch of coleslaw complements smoky, savoury flavours beautifully.

Pulled pork sandwiches or burgers: Pile your gluten-free coleslaw on top of pulled pork buns or gluten-free burgers for a classic combo that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Fish or shrimp tacos: Coleslaw adds a lovely crisp contrast to soft tacos filled with grilled fish or shrimp, making for a light yet flavourful meal.

Grilled chicken breast with a fruity twist: For example, grilled pineapple chicken breast pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, balancing sweet and tangy notes.

Vegetarian-friendly options: Serve coleslaw alongside bean burgers, grilled vegetables, or even as a topping for quinoa or rice salads to keep things fresh and gluten-free.

In short, gluten-free coleslaw works brilliantly with BBQ favourites, grilled dishes, and even some lighter, summery meals. It’s that perfect side that adds crunch, creaminess, and a bit of zing to whatever you’re serving.

Are you ready to try my gluten-free coleslaw recipe? Then let’s get started:

4th Of July Recipe Collection

These shish kebabs are part of our 4th of July recipe collection. Here are the other recipes in this collection👇

• Gluten-free flag cake recipe
• Gluten-free potato salad recipe
• Gluten-free shish kebabs recipe
• Gluten-free chocolate chip cookies

Gluten-Free Coleslaw Tips

Preparation

Use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots for ease – It’s a brilliant time-saver and usually quite affordable. You can always shred your own, but if you’re busy, this shortcut is a real winner.

Dressing

Make your own dressing to keep it gluten-free and tasty – Many store-bought dressings can sneak in malt vinegar or other gluten-containing ingredients, so mixing up your own with mayo, vinegar (like white wine or apple cider), a touch of sugar, and seasoning means you’re in full control of flavour and safety.

Serving

Let it chill before serving – Coleslaw tastes best after it’s had at least an hour in the fridge. This resting time lets the flavours meld, and the dressing softens the cabbage just enough for that perfect creamy crunch.

Variations

Experiment with dressings for variety – Fancy a twist? Try an Asian-inspired dressing with rice wine vinegar, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil for a lovely change from the classic creamy style.

Organise

Make ahead but keep it fresh – You can prepare the dressing a few days in advance and store it in the fridge. Then just toss with the shredded veg a few hours before serving. If leftovers get a bit watery, simply drain the excess liquid or add a little more shredded cabbage to freshen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does coleslaw naturally contain gluten?

Generally, no. The main ingredients, like cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise, are naturally gluten-free. However, the tricky part is the dressing—some vinegars like malt vinegar, contain gluten, so it’s important to check labels or use gluten-free options like apple cider vinegar.

Can I eat coleslaw if I’m on a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! Just be mindful of the ingredients in the dressing and any pre-packaged mixes. Homemade coleslaw is often the safest bet since you control what goes in, especially the vinegar and mustard.

How long does gluten-free coleslaw keep in the fridge?

It usually keeps well for 2 to 4 days. Many people find it tastes even better on the second day once the cabbage has marinated in the dressing. Just remember to keep it chilled and don’t leave it out too long.

Is gluten-free coleslaw suitable for other diets?

Yes, it’s often keto and low-carb friendly because it’s mostly veggies and a creamy dressing. Plus, it’s dairy-free if you use a mayo without dairy, making it quite versatile.

 How can I avoid gluten contamination when buying coleslaw?

If you’re buying pre-made coleslaw, look for certified gluten-free labels. In delis or restaurants, cross-contamination can happen if the coleslaw is prepared near gluten-containing foods, so it’s best to ask or make your own at home.

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