Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a delightful twist on the classic coleslaw that brings together refreshing flavors and textures. Combining crunchy cabbage with the sweetness of apples and tartness of cranberries, this dish makes for a beautiful and tasty addition to any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up a bowl of cranberry apple coleslaw! For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking minimal time to toss together. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or even as a side for weekday dinners. This coleslaw brings a vibrant burst of color and flavor to your plate, making it not only appetizing but also visually appealing. Additionally, the health benefits of cabbage, apples, and cranberries are numerous, offering a nutritious option alongside traditional coleslaw recipes.
So, whether you’re looking for a new side dish or a fresh approach to classic coleslaw, this recipe is worth trying.
How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup apples, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage.
- Add the diced apples and dried cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful cranberry apple coleslaw!
Pro Tips for Success with Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your apples and cabbages will greatly impact the overall flavor of your coleslaw. Look for crisp cabbage and juicy apples for the best results.
- Cut apples just before serving: To prevent browning, chop your apples right before adding them to the coleslaw. This keeps the dish looking fresh and colorful.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste or the tartness of your apples, you can adjust the amount of honey in the dressing. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Mix in other veggies: Feel free to add other shredded vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Let the flavors meld: For the best taste, let your coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to come together beautifully.
- Try different vinegars: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar can be great substitutions.
Flavor Variations for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
- Add nuts: Boost the crunch factor with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, which can also add a nutty flavor.
- Introduce citrus: A splash of lemon or orange juice in the dressing can give your coleslaw a citrusy zing that complements the other flavors.
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeño for a spicy twist.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a fresh flavor to your coleslaw.
- Alternative dressing: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version that still has a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Cranberry apple coleslaw pairs excellently with many dishes. Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or tofu–it adds a refreshing balance to heavier meals. It can also be heaped on sandwiches or used as a topping for tacos. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider offering this coleslaw as part of a spread along with charcuterie, fresh veggies, and dips.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
For optimal freshness, store cranberry apple coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically last for about 3-5 days. However, keep in mind that the cabbage may become a little softer over time, especially once mixed with the dressing. If you’d like to prepare it in advance, consider mixing the cabbage and cranberries together, and store the dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crunch.
Freezing coleslaw is generally not recommended as the texture will change once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|——–|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
FAQ About Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Can I make cranberry apple coleslaw in advance?
Yes! You can prepare cranberry apple coleslaw a day in advance. However, if you plan to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This will help preserve the crunchiness of the vegetables, making it more enjoyable.
What type of apples are best for this coleslaw?
For this recipe, sweet and crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith are perfect choices. Consider using a mixture for added flavor; for instance, a tart apple combined with a sweet one creates a great balance in taste.
Is there a dairy-free version of this coleslaw?
Absolutely! To make this cranberry apple coleslaw dairy-free, replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative, or use Greek yogurt if you prefer. This will still provide a creamy texture without dairy.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
If you find the dressing too sweet, you can easily balance it out by adding a splash more vinegar or a pinch of salt. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preferences to find the right balance.
Can I serve this coleslaw warm?
Cranberry apple coleslaw is best served cold or chilled. Enjoying it warm may alter the texture and flavor profile, so it’s advisable to let it cool down for a refreshing taste.
Final Thoughts
Creating a vibrant bowl of cranberry apple coleslaw is not only easy but also rewarding. It brings a delicious melding of flavors and crunch that can complement many meals and add a splash of color to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, adding it to a picnic feast, or simply enjoying it as a side dish during the week, you’ll be glad you tried this recipe.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking and enjoy your refreshing cranberry apple coleslaw!
Print
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on classic coleslaw, combining crunchy cabbage with the sweetness of apples and tartness of cranberries.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup apples, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage.
- Add the diced apples and dried cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best taste, chill for at least 30 minutes. Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
