This Fresh Cranberry Coleslaw is a crunchy and colorful dish perfect for holiday meals! With fresh cabbage, juicy cranberries, and a zesty dressing, it brings a lively twist to your table.
It’s not just tasty; it adds a pop of color to your feast! I love serving it in a big bowl so everyone can help themselves. Plus, leftovers make a great snack! 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the base of your coleslaw. I recommend using fresh, crisp green cabbage as it adds lightness and crunch. If you want a different texture, feel free to swap it with Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage.
Purple Cabbage: It adds a nice color contrast and extra crunch. If you can’t find it, just use more green cabbage or add a splash of purple from shredded beets for color.
Dried Cranberries: They provide a sweet and tart flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try raisins or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a nutty flavor and crunch. If you’re nut-free, pumpkin seeds work well, or you can skip them entirely if you prefer a lighter salad.
Mayonnaise: This is what gives your dressing the creamy texture. For a healthier option, consider Greek yogurt or dairy-free mayo if you’re vegan.
How Can I Ensure My Coleslaw Stays Crunchy?
To keep your coleslaw crunchy, it’s all about timing and preparation techniques. First, you want to make sure you don’t dress the coleslaw too early. If you dress it well in advance, the cabbage may become soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the solid ingredients in a bowl but dress it only 30 minutes before serving.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator, as this helps keep everything firm.
- For extra crunch, consider letting the shredded cabbage sit in a little salt for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry it to remove excess moisture.
This way, your coleslaw will be fresh, crisp, and ready to impress at your holiday table!
Fresh Cranberry Coleslaw for Holiday Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Veggies:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery
- 2 green onions, sliced
For the Crunch:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (toasted if preferred)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Seasoning:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. The chilling time lets all the flavors blend nicely, making your coleslaw refreshing and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced celery, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and sunflower seeds. Mix them gently until combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Keep mixing until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and toss everything well to make sure the veggies are evenly coated.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground black pepper over the coleslaw, then mix again gently. Make it to your taste preference!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the delicious flavors to meld together.
6. Final Touches:
Before you serve, give the coleslaw a final toss. If you like, you can garnish it with extra sunflower seeds or cranberries for added flair. Now it’s ready to bring some color and crunch to your holiday meal!
This Fresh Cranberry Coleslaw is not just a delight to eat but also a beautiful addition to your holiday spread. Enjoy it chilled for the best taste!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Yes, you can! Fresh cranberries will give a tart flavor but will need to be cooked down a bit with sugar or sweetener to tame their acidity. Simply simmer them with a bit of water and sugar until softened, then cool before adding to the coleslaw.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Coleslaw?
Leftover coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the coleslaw is best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal crunchiness!
Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegan or Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan mayonnaise or a blend of cashew cream. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully plant-based.
What Can I Add to Customize My Coleslaw?
You can add various ingredients to tailor the coleslaw to your taste! Try incorporating chopped apples for sweetness, sliced almonds or walnuts for extra crunch, or even some bell peppers for additional color and flavor. Just make sure not to overload it to keep the balance!
