Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and tasty addition to your meals, you’ll absolutely love this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe! This dish is full of color and crunch, making it a delightful side that’s suitable for any gathering, from casual weeknight dinners to festive family celebrations. The combination of tangy cranberries and crisp apples creates a refreshing flavor that complements so many main courses.

What I adore about this coleslaw is how easy it comes together. It’s a fantastic way to add some wholesome ingredients to your plate without much fuss. Plus, the creamy dressing has just the right amount of zing, making every bite satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This coleslaw takes just 20 minutes to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy with family and friends.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and crunchy veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that everyone will appreciate.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a bit.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a barbecue, holiday feast, or simply a weeknight dinner, this coleslaw fits right in.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet-tart taste of cranberries paired with apples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need to create this delicious coleslaw:

For the Slaw

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
• 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Variations

This coleslaw recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Crunch: Toss in some shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for extra texture.
• Change Up the Fruits: Swap out the apples for pears or add some orange segments for a citrus twist.
• Spice It Up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dressing for a little kick.
• Go Nut-Free: Leave out the nuts if there are allergies; it’s still delicious without them!

How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Cabbage

Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Placing the cabbage in a large bowl allows room for all those wonderful additions later.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Adding them directly to the bowl with the cabbage ensures they blend well with all the flavors.

Step 3: Add Dried Cranberries

Sprinkle in the dried cranberries next. Their sweetness will contrast nicely with the tartness of the dressing.

Step 4: Incorporate Nuts and Parsley

If you’re using nuts, chop them coarsely and add them in along with finely chopped parsley. The parsley adds freshness while giving your coleslaw an appealing pop of color.

Step 5: Whisk Together Dressing Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. This dressing brings everything together!

Step 6: Season Your Dressing

Add celery seeds, salt, and pepper into your dressing mixture. These seasonings enhance flavor while keeping things simple.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour your creamy dressing over the cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything until it’s evenly coated—this step is key for maximum flavor!

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Cover your coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving. Chilling allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste your creation! Adjust any seasoning as needed so every bite is just right.

Step 10: Serve Chilled

Finally, serve your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw chilled as a refreshing side dish that everyone will enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Creating the perfect Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is easy with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your coleslaw is both delicious and visually appealing.

• Choose the right apples: Opt for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji; they provide a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries and hold their shape well in the slaw.

• Shred cabbage finely: Thinner shreds allow for a better balance of flavors and make it easier to eat, leading to a more enjoyable dining experience.

• Let it chill: Allowing the coleslaw to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

• Taste and adjust: Always sample your coleslaw before serving. You may want to add extra seasoning or sweetness depending on your taste preferences.

• Make it ahead: This coleslaw keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or gatherings!

How to Serve Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not only colorful but also incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or pecans on top just before serving for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of parsley or even mint can enhance the visual appeal and introduce an aromatic freshness.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest adds a bright pop of color and elevates the citrus notes in the dressing.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated grilled chicken skewers make a hearty pairing with coleslaw, providing protein that complements its crunchiness.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances well with the tangy coleslaw, creating a satisfying combination.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with vegetables and lemon vinaigrette offers a wholesome side that aligns perfectly with this slaw.
• Vegetable Crudités: Freshly cut seasonal vegetables served with hummus or dip add a refreshing element that pairs nicely with the creamy coleslaw.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe! Whether it’s for a festive gathering or an everyday meal, this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes better after the flavors meld together but also makes your life easier on busy days. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If the dressing starts to separate, give it a good stir before serving again.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended for this coleslaw due to its high water content, which can lead to a soggy texture once thawed.
• However, you can freeze the chopped cabbage and apples separately if you want to prepare them ahead of time.

Reheating

• This dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat!
• If you’ve stored it in the fridge, just give it a good toss before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.

Can I make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! This coleslaw tastes even better when made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative if you’d prefer a lighter or dairy-free option. Both work wonderfully and maintain that creamy texture!

How long does Cranberry Apple Coleslaw last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this coleslaw will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Is there a way to make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I add other fruits to my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or raisins for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw as much as I do. It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with healthy ingredients that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, family gathering, or just for yourself during the week, this recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy every crunchy bite and feel free to share your own twists on this delightful dish!