Name: Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 2 cups shredded red cabbage (optional for color); 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned or thinly sliced; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional); 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for extra crunch); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic coleslaw, combining the crunchiness of cabbage with the sweetness of apples and cranberries. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a great side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a light salad, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded green cabbage

2 cups shredded red cabbage (optional for color)

1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned or thinly sliced

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for extra crunch)

For the Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lemon (to keep apples fresh and add tang)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Core and thinly slice the apple. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.

In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage (if using), carrots, cranberries, apple slices, green onions (if using), and nuts (if using).

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss everything together until well coated.

Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. If you’re serving it as a side dish, it should be enough for a small group. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator.

Variations

Add pomegranate seeds: For a burst of freshness and a touch of sweetness, sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top before serving.

Poppy Seed Dressing: Swap the dressing for a poppy seed version for a different flavor profile.

Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy finish.

Lighter Version: If I’m looking for a healthier take, I can replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Add Protein: To turn this into a main dish, I can add some cooked chicken or turkey.

Storage/Reheating

This coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. It’s best served cold, so I don’t recommend reheating it. If I make it ahead of time, just be sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, I can make it a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and the flavors will meld beautifully. If I add any nuts or seeds, I might want to wait to sprinkle them on top until just before serving so they stay crunchy.

What type of apple is best for coleslaw?

I like using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for this coleslaw because they are crisp and slightly tart, which balances the sweetness of the cranberries and honey in the dressing. However, any firm apple will work.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be too tart for this recipe. If I prefer fresh cranberries, I could chop them and mix them into the coleslaw, but I’d recommend adding a little extra sweetness, like honey or maple syrup, to balance the flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this coleslaw vegan, I can use a plant-based mayonnaise and swap the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. I’d also make sure that the sweetener is vegan-friendly, such as maple syrup.

Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw?

Absolutely! I love adding extra vegetables to coleslaw for more color and flavor. Some good additions are bell peppers, radishes, or even a handful of kale for an added green crunch.

Conclusion

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that elevate any meal. It’s quick to prepare and can easily be adapted to suit various preferences or dietary needs. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or turning it into a main with added protein, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I love the balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements that make this coleslaw stand out!

Recipe:

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 6-8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic coleslaw, combining the crunchiness of cabbage with the sweetness of apples and cranberries.