Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: A Refreshing Twist

Crisp autumn winds whisper secrets of a cranberry apple coleslaw that dances with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Seasonal produce mingles in a delightful symphony of sweet and tangy notes.

Local markets burst with ripe apples and plump cranberries, inspiring creative culinary adventures.

Crunchy cabbage becomes a canvas for this unexpected combination of ingredients.

Textural contrasts and bright flavors make this dish a conversation starter at any gathering.

Colorful and refreshing, this coleslaw promises to surprise and delight even the most discerning palate.

You’ll want to savor every delectable bite of this unique twist on a classic side dish.

What’s Fresh About Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Super easy recipe that takes just 15 minutes to prepare, perfect for busy home cooks.
• Combines sweet and tangy elements with crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds for a delightful taste experience.
• Packed with fresh vegetables, dried fruit, and a lighter dressing that adds nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Can be prepared in advance and chills in the refrigerator, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings.

What Goes into Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Cabbage: Crunchy base for coleslaw, provides fresh texture and nutritional value. Green or white varieties work best.
• Apple: Adds sweet, crisp element to the salad. Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Carrots: Brings color and extra crunch to the salad. Fresh, firm carrots are ideal.

• Dried Cranberries: Introduces tartness and bright color. Look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened options.
• Almonds: Provides nutty crunch and protein. Sliced or slivered almonds work perfectly.

• Mayonnaise: Creates creamy base for dressing. Use full-fat or light version based on preference.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tangy brightness and balances sweetness. Raw, unfiltered vinegar offers more depth.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps balance acidity. Local honey recommended.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds complex flavor and helps emulsify dressing. Smooth or whole grain works well.

• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile. Sea salt or kosher salt preferred.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity. Freshly ground recommended.

Mixing Up Cranberry Apple Coleslaw in Minutes

Step 1: Shred and Slice Fresh Ingredients

• Cabbage
• Fresh apples
• Carrots
• Dried cranberries
• Sliced almonds (optional)

Toss all ingredients into a spacious mixing bowl.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Dressing

• Mayonnaise
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Mix and Coat Thoroughly

Pour the creamy dressing over the prepared vegetables and fruits. Use salad tongs or a large spoon to gently mix and coat every single ingredient. Ensure each piece gets a delightful splash of dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Enhance Flavors

Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap. Slide the bowl into the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period allows the flavors to mingle and develop a more complex taste profile.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from refrigerator. Give a quick stir. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.

Tips for Crunchy and Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Boost Flavor Depth: Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the dressing to fully penetrate the cabbage and enhance overall taste profile.
• Prevent Watery Slaw: Pat the shredded cabbage and apple dry with paper towels before mixing to prevent excess moisture and maintain crisp texture.
• Customize Crunch Factor: Toast almonds briefly in a dry skillet to intensify their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of crispiness to the coleslaw.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a lighter, allergy-friendly version that maintains creamy consistency.
• Extend Freshness: Add sliced almonds just before serving to preserve their crunchiness and prevent them from becoming soggy during refrigeration.

Save and Serve Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Later

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the coleslaw chilled to maintain its crisp texture and fresh flavor.
• Before storing, gently drain any accumulated liquid to prevent soggy cabbage and preserve the salad's crunch.
• Freezing is not recommended as it will break down the cabbage and apples, causing a mushy texture when thawed.
• Quickly stir the coleslaw and add a few fresh almonds or a sprinkle of herbs to revive its appearance and taste before serving leftovers.

What to Eat with Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Select a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the tangy coleslaw and cuts through its creamy texture.
• Serve alongside barbecued chicken, pulled pork, or grilled fish to balance the coleslaw's sweet and acidic notes with smoky, hearty proteins.
• Add crusty sourdough bread or toasted artisan rolls to provide a textural contrast and soak up the delicious dressing.
• Create a summer picnic spread by adding a simple green salad with light vinaigrette to round out the meal's freshness and flavor profile.

Flavors to Mix into Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace mayonnaise with vegan yogurt or cashew cream. Swap honey with maple syrup for a plant-based version. Add extra seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for protein boost.
• Gluten-Free Crunch Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar. Replace almonds with gluten-free pumpkin seeds for added texture.
• Low-Carb Nutty Slaw: Swap apples with jicama for lower carbohydrate content. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Add extra nuts like walnuts or pecans for healthy fats and crunch.
• Spicy Citrus Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for heat. Add orange zest to dressing for bright citrus flavor. Include chopped cilantro for fresh herbaceous notes.

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Fresh cranberry apple coleslaw brings a crisp symphony of sweet and tangy flavors to your table. Crunchy cabbage mingles with juicy apples and tart cranberries, creating a vibrant side dish you’ll savor at every gathering.

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Ingredients

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Vegetables and Fruits:

• 4 cups (0.95 liters) shredded green cabbage
• 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• ¼ cup (59 milliliters) shredded carrots

Dried Fruits and Nuts:

• ½ cup (118 milliliters) dried cranberries
• ¼ cup (59 milliliters) sliced almonds or pecans

Dressing Ingredients:

• ½ cup (118 milliliters) mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) honey
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather the crisp cabbage, tart apple slices, vibrant dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and crunchy almonds in a spacious mixing vessel.
2. Craft a harmonious dressing by vigorously blending mayonnaise, tangy apple cider vinegar, golden honey, zesty Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and a whisper of ground pepper until silky smooth.
3. Drizzle the aromatic dressing over the vegetable mixture, gently folding and turning to ensure each ingredient is luxuriously coated with the creamy blend.
4. Seal the coleslaw in a container and retreat to the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to intertwine and develop for a minimum of half an hour.
5. When ready to serve, retrieve the chilled salad and present it as a refreshing, texture-rich side dish that celebrates the harmony of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements.

Notes

• Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunch to the coleslaw.
• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version that reduces calories and adds protein.
• Slice apples just before mixing to prevent browning and maintain fresh, crisp texture.
• Prepare coleslaw up to 4 hours ahead for optimal flavor development, keeping it chilled until serving time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg