Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic coleslaw recipe. With crisp greens, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries, this dish is perfect for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, or just as a side for your weeknight dinners. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a colorful addition to your meals. The crunch from the cabbage and pecans, combined with the sweetness of the apples and cranberries, creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
What You’ll Need for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
To whip up this tasty side dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about 300g)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage (about 75g)
- 1 large apple, julienned (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (about 80g)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) (about 30g)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (about 60g)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream) (about 60g)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (about 15ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (about 15ml)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Follow these simple steps to create your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw:
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Prepare the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned apple, dried cranberries, optional pecans, and thinly sliced green onions. Mix well to incorporate everything evenly.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until well coated. Make sure every bit of the salad is dressed!
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Chill: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Serve: Once chilled, give it a quick toss and serve cold. Enjoy the crunch and burst of flavors!
The Best Way to Serve It
Serving Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is easy and versatile. You can present it in a large salad bowl for communal gatherings or serve individual portions on plates for a more elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or even as a filling in wraps and sandwiches. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some additional chopped pecans or a few fresh apple slices on top just before serving for added crunch and visual appeal.
Expert Tips for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- Freshness Counts: Use fresh cabbage and crisp apples for the best texture and flavor. Avoid using cabbage that seems wilted or soft.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize this coleslaw by adding other ingredients like shredded carrots, raisins, or even a dash of cinnamon for a fall-inspired twist.
- Staying Fresh: If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can chop the vegetables and store them separately in the fridge. Combine and dress them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the veggies a day in advance. Just dress the salad about 30 minutes before you plan to serve it to keep the vegetables crisp.
What type of apple is best for coleslaw?
Sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best because they add a nice crunch and balance the flavors in the coleslaw.
How long will Apple Cranberry Coleslaw last in the fridge?
This coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best consumed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness.
Bring a bit of crunch and flavor to your table with this delicious Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! It’s easy to make and will surely impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!