If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s crisp, tangy, and bursting with color, let me introduce you to Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. This isn’t just your ordinary slaw—it’s a vibrant blend of crunchy cabbage, sweet-tart apples, and chewy cranberries, all tossed in a creamy dressing that pulls everything together in the most irresistible way. Whether you’re planning a holiday spread, summer picnic, or simply need a refreshing side for a weeknight dinner, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw promises to become a new favorite with its playful textures and zippy flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings something special to the bowl, from the crunch of cabbage to the sweetness of apples and cranberries, making every bite a celebration of tastes and textures.
- Green cabbage: The classic base—shredded for a satisfying crunch and mild flavor that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
- Red cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a slightly peppery note, making the coleslaw as pretty as it is tasty.
- Carrot: Grated for extra crunch and a pop of orange, it brings natural sweetness to the mix.
- Apple: Julienned or thinly sliced with the skin on for a burst of juicy, tart-sweet flavor—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work especially well.
- Dried cranberries: Chewy, sweet, and a little tangy, they’re the perfect contrast to the crisp veggies.
- Green onions: Chopped and sprinkled in for a gentle onion bite that wakes up the whole salad.
- Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley lends a hint of herbal brightness and a splash of green.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the dressing; swap half for Greek yogurt if you want it lighter.
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing its signature tang and ties the apple flavor into every forkful.
- Honey or maple syrup: Just a touch of natural sweetness to balance the tart and savory notes.
- Dijon mustard: For a subtle sharpness and depth that keeps the dressing interesting.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip them!
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Step 1: Prep the Veggies and Fruit
Start by shredding the green and red cabbage—if you have a food processor or a sharp knife, either will do the trick. Grate the carrot, then julienne or thinly slice the apple, keeping the skin on for both color and nutrition. Toss them all into a large mixing bowl with the dried cranberries, green onions, and parsley (if using). This step is where the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw gets its beautiful rainbow of colors and crunch!
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy—this luscious dressing will soon coat every bit of your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw.
Step 3: Toss and Combine
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Using tongs or clean hands, toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. You want every bite to have a little of everything! The cabbage will start to soften just a touch, but still keep its crunch.
Step 4: Chill and Mingle
Cover the bowl and let your coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time is when the flavors really come together, and the cranberries plump up just a bit. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick toss and taste for seasoning.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Garnishes
Top your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley, a few extra dried cranberries, or even a handful of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flair. These simple garnishes make the salad feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This slaw is a natural companion to grilled chicken, tangy barbecue pork, or even a classic turkey sandwich. For holiday meals, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings brightness and balance to hearty mains like roast beef or baked ham. It’s equally delightful next to veggie burgers or as a refreshing counterpoint to spicy dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mason jars for picnics, pile it high on sliders for a fun party snack, or use it as a colorful topping for tacos and wraps. However you dish it up, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is guaranteed to turn heads and spark conversation at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Apple Cranberry Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and crisp for up to three days, though the flavors deepen and mellow even more as it sits. Always give it a quick stir before serving again.
Freezing
While Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, freezing isn’t recommended as the cabbage and apples can lose their signature crunch and release extra moisture. For best results, make it a day ahead and enjoy within a few days for peak flavor and texture.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Apple Cranberry Coleslaw—this dish is meant to be served chilled or at cool room temperature. Simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving if you prefer it less cold.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead (or even the day before) allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a good toss before serving.
What type Side Dish
Both tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet varieties like Honeycrisp shine in Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. Choose your favorite, or mix both for a more complex flavor!
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes! For a lighter version, swap half (or all) of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It keeps the dressing creamy but adds a lovely tang and extra protein.
Is Apple Cranberry Coleslaw gluten-free?
It is! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. As always, double-check your labels if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivity.
How can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Just use vegan mayo and swap the honey for maple syrup in the dressing. The result is every bit as creamy and delicious, and perfect for a plant-based table.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your salad game, I can’t recommend Apple Cranberry Coleslaw enough. It’s colorful, crunchy, and irresistibly flavorful—bound to become a staple at your table. Whip up a batch, share it with friends and family, and watch it disappear. Happy crunching!
Print
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw featuring a crunchy mix of green and red cabbage, sweet apple slices, and dried cranberries tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a healthy side dish for any meal, especially during fall and holiday seasons.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruits
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 apple, julienned or thinly sliced with skin on
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional)
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, grated carrot, julienned apple, dried cranberries, chopped green onions, and optional parsley. Mix them gently to ensure an even blend.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing for balanced flavor throughout.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to cool. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess.
- This coleslaw pairs excellently with grilled chicken, pork dishes, or as a festive side during holiday meals.
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or sweeter varieties such as Honeycrisp depending on your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¾ cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
