Creamy Ranch Coleslaw

A couple weeks ago I had a trip back in time as I watched the Turtle Days parade and enjoyed the festivities around Churubusco, Indiana. I remember being in the parade as a child, riding in a pick-up truck with my little league teammates and trying my best to bounce a Tootsie Roll off a spectator's forehead. Cotton candy, the tilt-a-whirl and the site of carnies in the community park were as exciting as getting new Star Wars toys for Christmas. I couldn’t wait for Turtle Days, it was always one of the highlights of my summer vacation.

The warm days of June and July were, and still are, my favorite time of year. Time for Turtle Days and cookouts.

For this recipe, I make a basic coleslaw with a twist - the addition of a packet of ranch seasoning mix. It provides spark to this cookout classic – much like the closing fireworks at Turtle Days now. I was as exited to try this coleslaw as I was to watch them light the sky from my Sister’s place in Thresher Ridge, both were as good as riding the Rock-o-Plane in 1986.

BEHIND THIS BITE
I made this coleslaw a couple of weeks ago for a topping on a hot dog. I thought it was worth a try as a side dish, so I adjusted the amounts and gave it a test. It’s as tasty by itself as it was on a dog. I thought it was worth sharing. If you need a side dish for a cookout this summer, this recipe will not disappoint.

More on Turtle Days
The festival has changed a lot from when I was growing up. It was much larger as far as the carnival and amusements 25 years ago. I think there are more activities to participate in around town, but the midway part is really rinky-dink now.

The carnival might be smaller but, like I said in the intro, the addition of a fireworks show as the closing ceremony makes all the difference. The last three years it has been spectacular. Sure, they're not the Macy’s firework show in New York City on the 4th of July, but for a small Indiana town, it’s worth gathering some friends and family and watching the display.

Eat well, cook often ...
THE RECIPE
Serves 4 to 6; 5 minutes active, 1 hour resting
1 bag Coleslaw mix (16 oz)
3/4 C Mayonnaise
3 Tbs Vinegar
3 Tbs Sugar
3 Tbs Vegetable oil
1 pkg Ranch seasoning mix

Mix coleslaw, refrigerate, serve
In a large bowl stir together coleslaw mix, mayo, vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar and packet of ranch seasoning until well incorporated. Place in refrigerator and let marinate for at least one hour. Remove and serve.