Mother's Picnic Coleslaw

1 C vegetable oil
1 C white or cider vinegar
1 ¼ to 1 ½ C sugar
2 T celery seeds
lettuce leaves (optional)
3 lbs cabbage, chopped
1 medium-size green pepper, finely chopped
2 medium-size white onions, finely chopped
1 T salt
1 /2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Heat the oil, vinegar, sugar, and celery seeds until the mixture boils and the sugar dissolves. Simmer for a few minutes.  Combine the chopped vegetables in a large bowl. Season with the salt and pepper and mix well. Pour hot dressing over the vegetables and let stand for at least two hours before serving. You can chill overnight for the best flavor.  Keeps well without refrigeration.