Instantly Brighten Up Store-Bought Coleslaw With One Extra Ingredient

Pickles put a briny twist on this classic dish

There are countless tasty sandwich combinations that already include coleslaw and pickles, so why not skip the meat and bread and highlight the vegetables instead? Don't feel restricted to just dill pickles; both sweet and bread-and-butter pickles can enhance your coleslaw beautifully. The primary distinction lies in their sweetness, allowing you to choose based on your preference for sugary slaw. Bread-and-butter pickles are particularly easy to slice due to their chip-like shape, and their added tanginess can elevate a potentially dull coleslaw.

One of the standout features of pickles is their bold, acidic, vinegary flavor. If you want your slaw to have an extra kick, consider adding some pickle brine directly to your dressing. We even think pickle juice can serve as a fantastic substitute for hot sauce, so if your coleslaw needs a bolder flavor, a splash of brine will do wonders.

Looking for more ways to enhance store-bought coleslaw? As with any pre-packaged dish, the fastest way to boost its flavor is to season it generously and incorporate fresh herbs. After mixing in your pickles, sprinkle the coleslaw with herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro. If you're craving a bit of heat, try adding some chopped jalapeño peppers to your slaw. Pickled jalapeños, in particular, will complement the texture and briny flavor of your cucumber pickles while providing an extra kick.