Kool Slaw

ColeSlawI’m told that coleslaw dates back to the ancient Romans, although it didn’t really kick into gear until mayo was invented in the 18th century. (Can you imagine life before mayo? One more reason to be glad that, in the birth lottery, you got a later century.)

“Cole” comes from the Latin word colis, you will be interested to know. But the Dutch called the salad koolsla,which I find more appealing so I’m stealing from them.

(We also have reason to believe that the Dutch practically invented tulips so they have really got it going on.)

But enough with the history lesson. I like a salad that won’t wilt overnight; you can make Kool Slaw on a Friday and eat it all weekend. Have it with (or inside) a sandwich, pop open a beer, and it’s a kool day.

Kool Slaw

1 small head Savoy cabbage
2 carrots, peeled
1 apple, cored and finely chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 chopped finely chopped fresh dill (optional)
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 cup almonds, roasted and chopped

Using the slicer blade, shred the cabbage in a food processor and transfer it to a salad bowl. Switch to the grater blade to grate the carrots in the processor. Add the carrots, apple, parsley, and the dill to the cabbage and mix well.

Combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, mustard, and honey in a separate bowl.

Toss the slaw with as much dressing as you like. Sprinkle the nuts on top, and serve. (Serves 6-8.)

Jessica Harper is an actor/author who lives in Los Angeles and New York. Her latest book is "The Crabby Cook Cookbook," and she also blogs at http://www.jessicaharper.com and at http://www.thecrabbycook.com.