Old-Fashioned Miracle Whip Coleslaw with Grapes and Nuts

Take a trip back in time with our old-fashioned Miracle Whip coleslaw, it’s a nostalgic mid-century classic perfect for potlucks and picnics.

This old-fashioned Miracle Whip coleslaw is a nostalgic side dish that brings back memories of mid-century potlucks and family dinners. The combination of fruit and nuts in creamy salads was a staple of vintage recipe books, and this version is no exception.

Juicy red grapes, crunchy sunflower seeds, and sliced almonds are folded into a classic coleslaw mix and tossed with a sweet and tangy Miracle Whip dressing.

It’s creamy, crunchy, slightly sweet, and packed with that retro charm – perfect for summer cookouts, holiday spreads, or any time you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing side.

Tips & Storage Instructions

• Mix just before serving if you want to preserve maximum crunch. The coleslaw will soften the longer it sits.
• Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavour – the dressing mellows and the flavours come together.
• Make ahead: You can make the dressing a day ahead and store it separately. Combine everything just before serving.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Pre-mixed coleslaw: Using a store-bought bag saves time, but you can also shred your own green cabbage and carrots if you prefer.
• Miracle Whip: The key to that signature sweet and tangy flavour. Mayonnaise can be used in a pinch, but it will change the taste significantly.
• Milk: Helps thin the dressing to the right consistency. Use whole or 2% milk; non-dairy alternatives like oat or almond milk also work.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tang. You can reduce the amount to taste or use honey as a substitute.
• Salt & pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance flavour.
• Sunflower seeds: Add crunch and nuttiness. Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pecans can be used instead.
• Sliced almonds: For a delicate crunch. Chopped walnuts or cashews also work well.
• Seedless red grapes: They add a burst of sweetness and juiciness. Green grapes can be used, but red adds a better visual contrast.

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Old-Fashioned Miracle Whip Coleslaw

Yields: 6 Servings | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (approx. 14 oz or 400g) pre-mixed coleslaw
• 1 cup Miracle Whip
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved

Instructions:

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Miracle Whip, milk, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Place the coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
3. Add the sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and grapes. Gently stir to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
5. Give the coleslaw a quick stir before serving. Enjoy!