If you’re looking to brighten up your table with a vibrant, tangy, and delightfully crunchy salad, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly balances the crispness of fresh cabbage with the sweet sharpness of apples and the tart pop of dried cranberries, all brought together by a creamy, slightly tangy dressing. This dish is not just a side; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that will impress family and guests alike, making every bite exciting and refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients is key to creating a memorable Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe. Each component brings its own magic to the bowl—whether it’s the crunch, sweetness, color, or creaminess—making the combination irresistibly delicious and visually appealing.
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced: The crisp foundation that provides the classic coleslaw texture and a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned or thinly sliced: Adds a juicy sweetness and a bit of tartness to contrast the cabbage.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little bursts of tartness brighten every forkful and add a lovely ruby color.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional): For an added crunchy nutty note, enhancing the texture complexity.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional): A subtle, fresh onion bite that lifts the salad’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a hint of herbal freshness and a splash of verdant green.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option): The creamy component that binds everything together with a tangy richness.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides the essential tang to balance the sweetness and creaminess beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to round out the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle kick and depth to the dressing’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional): A classic spice that adds complexity and a whisper of earthiness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by placing the thinly sliced green cabbage into a large mixing bowl. Add the julienned apple slices, dried cranberries, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds if you’re using them, thinly sliced green onions, and chopped parsley. Mixing these fresh ingredients creates a colorful and textured salad base that’s both inviting and flavorful.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and celery seeds if you chose to include them. Season this creamy mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing will provide a luscious, tangy coating that perfectly complements the crisp veggies and sweet fruits.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure each shred of cabbage and piece of apple is evenly coated, ensuring a delightful bite every time. This step is crucial for melding all those fabulous flavors into a cohesive dish.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Let your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld and the cranberries soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste and making the salad even more refreshing when served cold.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle additional sliced almonds or sunflower seeds right before serving to add a fresh crunch. A light dusting of chopped parsley or even a few whole cranberries can brighten the appearance and offer a fresh flavor boost that turns your coleslaw into a true showstopper.
Side Dishes
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or fish, serving as a crisp and refreshing contrast to smoky or savory main dishes. It also works well alongside sandwiches, adding a burst of flavor and crunch that lifts the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or potlucks, serve the coleslaw in individual mason jars or in a hollowed-out apple bowl for a charming presentation. You can layer the coleslaw with whole cranberries or sliced apples on top to make it visually enticing. This adds a touch of whimsy while making it easy for guests to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and crisp for up to 3 days, though the texture is best if enjoyed within the first 24 hours. Stir well before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because of the fresh cabbage and apples, freezing this coleslaw is not recommended. Freezing can cause the vegetables to become watery and mushy upon thawing, losing the crunchy texture that defines this salad.
Reheating
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is designed to be served cold and is not meant for reheating. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt makes a fantastic lighter alternative that adds creaminess with less fat, while keeping that tangy flavor intact. For a vegan option, try using a plant-based mayo.
What type of apple is best for this coleslaw?
Granny Smith apples provide a crisp, tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet dressing, while Honeycrisp apples offer a bit sweeter and juicier bite. Either works wonderfully depending on your preference for sweet or tart.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be swapped for almonds for a richer crunch, and dried cherries or golden raisins make delightful alternatives or additions to the dried cranberries.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, swap the mayonnaise for a vegan-friendly mayo or a creamy plant-based yogurt. Ensure the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it fully vegan.
How far in advance can I prepare this coleslaw?
You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors and texture for that perfect crisp bite.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe has the power to become one of your go-to salads, whether for everyday meals or special gatherings. Its balance of sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy elements is truly irresistible. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself reaching for this bowl again and again.
Print
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshingly crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw combining crunchy cabbage, tart apples, and sweet dried cranberries tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light snack, this quick no-cook recipe blends fresh flavors with optional nuts and herbs for added texture and aroma.
Ingredients
Vegetables and 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 and Seeds
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
Dressing
- 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
- Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cabbage, julienned or thinly sliced apple, dried cranberries, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds if using, green onions, and chopped fresh parsley to create the base of the coleslaw.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, celery seeds if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to your preference for a balanced flavor.
- Toss the Coleslaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture, then toss thoroughly until all the cabbage and apples are well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer the coleslaw to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or snack.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup according to your taste.
- Optional ingredients like sliced almonds or sunflower seeds add crunch and texture.
- Celery seeds contribute a subtle aromatic flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Allowing the coleslaw to chill improves the flavor integration and crispness.
