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Homemade Pickled Watermelon Rind BBQ Slaw recipe photo

Pickled Watermelon Rind BBQ Slaw

This Pickled Watermelon Rind BBQ Slaw is a crunchy, tangy, and creamy side perfect for summer BBQs and grilling season!
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: BBQ, Easy, Pickled Watermelon Rind, Quick, Slaw, Summer
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup chopped pickled watermelon rind
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

  • Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots. Use a sharp knife or a food processor with a shredding attachment for speed and consistency. Dice the bell pepper and red onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. Chop the pickled watermelon rind into bite-sized chunks—this will give the slaw its signature tangy crunch.

Make the Dressing

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. Season the dressing with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Combine and Toss

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped pickled watermelon rind, diced bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything thoroughly until well coated.

Chill and Serve

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled alongside your favorite BBQ dishes or as a refreshing stand-alone salad.

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Food Processor
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Refrigerator

Notes

  • Pickle your own watermelon rind if you can't find it pre-pickled for a fresh homemade touch.
  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing by varying honey and vinegar to suit your taste.
  • Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and crunch.
  • This slaw tastes even better the next day as flavors develop—make ahead for easy entertaining.
  • Serve with grilled meats, pulled chicken sandwiches, or as a taco topping for a delicious twist.