Save to Pinterest This cranberry apple coleslaw combines shredded green and red cabbage with sweet apples, carrots, and dried cranberries for a refreshing twist on a classic side. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, adds a tangy finish. Perfect for pairing with grilled dishes or serving at potlucks, this coleslaw is easy to prepare and best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.
I once threw this together on a humid afternoon when I needed something bright and crunchy to cut through a heavy meal I had planned.
My friend Sarah took one bite at that picnic last summer and immediately asked for the container to take home.
Ingredients
- Green Cabbage: Use fresh heads for the best crunch and shred it as thinly as you can manage.
- Red Cabbage: This adds a gorgeous color contrast that makes the dish look professional.
- Apple: A crisp variety like Honeycrisp stays firm and adds a lovely sweetness.
- Carrots: Grating them finely helps them meld perfectly with the cabbage.
- Green Onions: These provide a mild zip without overpowering the other flavors.
- Dried Cranberries: They offer little bursts of tartness that balance the creamy dressing.
- Walnuts or Pecans: Toasting them lightly in a pan beforehand adds a deep nutty aroma.
- Mayonnaise: This creates the rich base that binds the vegetables together.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash cuts through the fat of the mayo and adds brightness.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch helps round out the sharpness of the vinegar.
- Dijon Mustard: This gives the dressing a subtle kick and emulsifies it well.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for popping all the individual flavors.
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Combine the shredded cabbages, carrots, julienned apple, green onions, and cranberries in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Crunch:
- Toss in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you decide to use them for extra texture.
- Whisk the Dressing:
- Mix the mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Toss and Coat:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss everything thoroughly.
- Chill Briefly:
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least twenty minutes to let the flavors meld.
Save to Pinterest Serving this bowl at family gatherings has become a tradition because it disappears so fast every single time.
Making It Dairy Free
Swapping in a high quality vegan mayonnaise works perfectly without compromising the creamy texture.
Choosing Your Nuts
Toasted pumpkin seeds are a fantastic alternative if you need to avoid tree nuts but still want that crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork chops to balance out the savory elements.
- Try it atop a turkey burger for a refreshing crunch.
- It adds great texture to a taco night spread.
- Keep it refrigerated until the very last moment for freshness.
Save to Pinterest I hope this vibrant coleslaw brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine over the years.
Recipe FAQ
- → What apples work best in this coleslaw?
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Sweet-tart varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp are ideal, but green or red apples can also be used based on preference.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
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Yes, refrigerating for at least 20 minutes helps flavors meld, but it’s best enjoyed the same day for optimal crunch.
- → Is this coleslaw suitable for dietary restrictions?
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It’s vegetarian and gluten-free. For dairy-free, use vegan mayonnaise.
- → What nuts can be used in this dish?
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Walnuts or pecans are recommended, but toasted pumpkin seeds work as a nut-free alternative.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The texture may soften over time.
