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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

4 from 70 reviews

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on a classic side dish, blending crisp cabbage with sweet apple slices, tart dried cranberries, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a vibrant accompaniment to any meal, this coleslaw offers a burst of texture and flavor that balances sweet, savory, and crunchy elements.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced (or a coleslaw mix)
  • 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned or thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Nuts & Seeds

  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)

Dressings & Condiments

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced green cabbage, julienned or thinly sliced apple, dried cranberries, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds if using, green onions, and chopped fresh parsley. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, celery seeds if using, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the sweetness or seasoning as you prefer.
  3. Toss the Coleslaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss everything together thoroughly until the cabbage and apple slices are fully coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a sealed container. Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. Serve cold as a side dish or refreshing accompaniment.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup according to your taste.
  • Optional add-ins like celery seeds, green onions, and parsley provide extra flavor and texture but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Prefer a gluten-free dish? This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
  • For extra crunch, toasted nuts or seeds can be used instead of raw.

Keywords: apple cranberry coleslaw, cranberry salad, apple coleslaw, creamy coleslaw recipe, no-cook coleslaw, gluten free salad