Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy salad that brings together the sweetness of apples, the tanginess of cranberries, and the crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, perfectly coats the veggies, making this coleslaw a delightful side dish. It's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for holiday meals or everyday dinners. Serve it cold for the best flavor and texture!
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for holiday meals or as a light addition to any meal. This salad combines shredded green cabbage, crisp apple slices, sweet dried cranberries, and shredded carrots, all tossed in a creamy dressing with a hint of tanginess. The optional addition of sliced almonds adds a nutty crunch, making this coleslaw a favorite among salad lovers.
INGREDIENTS
- Shredded green cabbage: 4 cups, for a crunchy base
- Apple: 1 large, thinly sliced, for sweetness and crispness
- Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup, for a tangy-sweet flavor
- Shredded carrots: 1/4 cup, for added color and crunch
- Sliced almonds (optional): 1/4 cup, for a nutty crunch
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup, for the creamy dressing
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tbsp, for tanginess
- Honey: 1 tbsp, for a hint of sweetness
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp, for a slight kick
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, to enhance flavor
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp, for seasoning
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, apple slices, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and sliced almonds (if using).
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 3:
- Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss until evenly coated.
- Step 4:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 5:
- Serve cold as a side dish or light meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For best results, serve the coleslaw cold, straight from the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Helpful Notes
- Use a variety of apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a blend of sweet and tart flavors.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like raisins, sunflower seeds, or thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Alice suggests adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness and to prevent the apples from browning.
Why Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Is the Perfect Holiday Side Dish
This coleslaw combines a variety of flavors and textures that make it an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings. The sweetness of the apples and cranberries, combined with the creamy dressing, creates a satisfying balance that complements a wide range of main dishes.
How to Make This Coleslaw Your Own
Try swapping the almonds with pecans or adding a handful of chopped celery for an extra crunch. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a yogurt-based version for a lighter touch.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage can be used for a colorful twist.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice before adding them to the coleslaw to prevent browning.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, use vegan mayonnaise and agave syrup instead of honey to make it vegan-friendly.
Summary
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a sweet, tangy, and crunchy salad that’s perfect as a holiday side dish or a refreshing addition to any meal. It combines shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and shredded carrots, all tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. The addition of sliced almonds adds extra crunch, making it even more satisfying. This coleslaw is easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it a great choice for both festive gatherings and weeknight dinners.