Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

If you are craving a crisp, refreshing salad that bursts with sweet and tangy flavors, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is just what you need. Combining the crunchy freshness of green cabbage with the natural sweetness of apples and dried cranberries creates a vibrant medley that dances on your palate. Creamy, lightly tangy dressing ties it all together, making it an irresistible side dish perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a simple weekday meal. The delightful textures and balanced flavors ensure this coleslaw stands out as a personal favorite you’ll want to share over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the secret to this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe’s success. Each element plays a crucial role, from crunchy cabbage to juicy apples and sweet-tart cranberries, bringing vibrant colors and satisfying textures to your bowl.

• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced: The crunchy base that adds freshness and structure to the salad.
• 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Adds a crisp, sweet-tart bite that complements the cabbage beautifully.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Brings juicy bursts of tart sweetness and a lovely contrast in texture.
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the mix.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional): Lends a mild oniony sharpness without overpowering the salad.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Freshens up the dish with a herbaceous note and lovely green flecks.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the dressing, with yogurt offering a lighter twist.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy zing that lifts the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Sweetens the dressing naturally and ties the tastes together.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle heat and richness for depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional): Adds a subtle, warm spiciness to enhance the dressing.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all the wonderful flavors.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

Begin by combining the thinly sliced green cabbage and the julienned apple in a large mixing bowl. Toss in the dried cranberries, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds if using, the thinly sliced green onions, and chopped fresh parsley. This mixture will form the colorful, crunchy heart of your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe, showcasing a blend of sweet, tart, and nutty textures that promise a delicious bite every time.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add the optional celery seeds, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking. This creamy dressing is the magic that gently coats the crisp ingredients and pulls all the flavors into a harmonious, mouthwatering experience.

Step 3: Toss the Coleslaw

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Use tongs or two large spoons to toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring every shred of cabbage and slice of apple is coated with the luscious dressing. This is where the ingredients truly come together, transforming from separate elements into that perfect, cohesive Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor development, let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dressing to soak into the cabbage and apples, marrying the sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements into a refreshing treat. Serve your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe cold to enjoy it at its peak crispness and flavor.

How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Garnishes

Top your coleslaw with a sprinkle of extra sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. A few fresh parsley leaves or a dash of celery seeds on top also elevate the presentation with vibrant color and subtle aroma.

Side Dishes

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish. It also makes an excellent companion to classic barbecue dishes like ribs or pulled pork, adding freshness and balance. For a vegetarian spread, serve alongside roasted vegetables or veggie burgers for a satisfying contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the coleslaw in hollowed-out apples or in small glass jars layered with extra cranberries and nuts. You can also heap it in butter lettuce cups for individual handheld servings that impress at parties and picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld further over time, making the coleslaw even tastier the next day. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

Because of the fresh cabbage and apples, freezing this coleslaw is not recommended as it will affect the texture negatively, making it soggy and mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.

Reheating

This coleslaw is designed to be served cold and does not require reheating. Keep it chilled to preserve the crisp textures and vibrant flavors that make the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe so delightful.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage will give your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe a beautiful pop of color and a slightly different flavor, but the crunch and texture will remain just as wonderful.

Is there a vegan version of this coleslaw?

Yes! Swap out mayonnaise for your favorite vegan mayo or a creamy plant-based yogurt. Using maple syrup instead of honey will keep the dressing entirely plant-based and just as delicious.

Can I add more fruit to the coleslaw?

Definitely! Pear slices or pomegranate seeds add interesting textures and sweet notes that blend nicely with the apple and cranberries in this recipe.

How can I make the dressing lighter?

Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat and adds a pleasant tang without sacrificing creaminess, perfect for a lighter take on the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe.

What if I don’t have celery seeds?

No worries! You can simply leave them out or substitute with a small pinch of celery salt or even a little ground fennel seed for a slightly different but still tasty flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe that makes it a standout on any table. Its refreshing crunch, balanced sweetness, and creamy tang create an irresistible combination you’ll love making again and again. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer cookout or enjoying it as a healthy snack, this coleslaw is bound to brighten your day and delight your taste buds. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to recipes!

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