This Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a crunchy and tangy mix that wakes up your taste buds! With crisp apples and bright cranberries, it’s perfect for any meal.
Trust me, this colorful slaw makes even the dullest dinner exciting. I love serving it with grilled chicken; it’s like a party in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the base for our coleslaw. If you prefer a different flavor, try using red cabbage or a mix of both for extra color!
Carrots: Shredded carrots add a nice sweetness. You can substitute with shredded beets or even a bit of finely chopped red bell peppers for a different twist.
Apple: A crisp apple like Gala or Honeycrisp gives great texture. If those aren’t available, feel free to use Fuji or Granny Smith for a tart option.
Dried Cranberries: These add a lovely tartness. If you want to switch it up, raisins or chopped dried apricots can work well too.
Walnuts: For crunch, toasted walnuts are my favorite. However, pecans or sunflower seeds can be good alternatives, especially for nut allergies.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Dressing?
The dressing is what ties everything together! Here’s how to make it shine:
- Combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. The vinegar adds brightness, while honey balances it with sweetness.
- Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Adding a pinch of salt can really enhance the flavors!
Let the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to marry beautifully, giving you a more delicious result!
Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 medium apple, cored and diced (preferably a crisp variety like Gala or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
- 3 green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slaw:
Start by adding the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, diced apple, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and sliced green onions into a large bowl. Gently toss everything together so it’s mixed evenly and the colors are vibrant.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This will be the flavor-packed dressing that brings everything together!
3. Combine the Slaw and Dressing:
Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is where the magic happens!
4. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a more delicious coleslaw.
5. Final Touch:
Before serving, give your coleslaw a final toss to mix everything once again. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. A little tweaking can make a big difference!
6. Serve:
Your Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is ready to shine! Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics, barbecues, or holiday gatherings. Enjoy the delightful mix of crunchy, sweet, and tart flavors!
Bon appétit! 🌟
Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw FAQ
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts add a nice crunch, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you prefer a nut-free option. Just make sure to toast them slightly for extra flavor!
How Long Will This Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, enjoy it within 48 hours for the best texture and flavor as the cabbage may soften over time.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, simply swap out the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative (like vegan mayo or a tahini dressing) and use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your coleslaw! You can add diced celery for extra crunch, or even some shredded Brussels sprouts for a fun twist. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can also add a tasty zing!
