Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Description

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a fresh, colorful side dish that combines crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and chewy dried cranberries in a creamy, tangy dressing. This refreshing slaw offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, barbecue dishes, and holiday meals. The crunchy texture of the cabbage and apples pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberries, creating a vibrant salad that is both delicious and nutritious. Easy to prepare and make ahead, this coleslaw is ideal for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
1 large apple, julienned or thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup carrots, grated
¼ cup chopped green onions

Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, apple, dried cranberries, carrots, and green onions.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Recipe Notes

Crisp apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best.
For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
The slaw can be prepared several hours ahead of serving.

Tips

Toss apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Shred cabbage finely for the best texture.
Serve chilled for maximum freshness and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 190mg

Health Benefits

Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Apples provide natural sweetness, fiber, and beneficial plant compounds.
Cranberries contain antioxidants that support overall wellness.
The combination of fruits and vegetables contributes important vitamins and minerals.
A refreshing side dish that can help increase daily vegetable intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
A: Yes, it can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated.

Q: What apples are best for this recipe?
A: Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples provide excellent sweetness and crunch.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. The recipe is naturally dairy-free if using standard mayonnaise.

Q: How long does it stay fresh?
A: It is best enjoyed within 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What dishes pair well with Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?
A: It complements barbecue, roasted chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, and holiday meals beautifully.