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Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

4.9 from 132 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw featuring a crunchy mix of green and red cabbage, sweet apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy maple-Dijon dressing. Perfect as a festive side dish to complement your holiday meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Slaw Mix

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 2 large carrots, shredded
  • 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits: Shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity.
  2. Shred the Carrots: Peel the carrots and grate them finely to add sweetness and color to the slaw.
  3. Slice the Apples: Slice the apples into thin sticks and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
  4. Toast the Almonds: Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they turn golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. Mix the Slaw Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
  6. Add Parsley: Chop fresh parsley and add it to the bowl, gently tossing the ingredients to distribute evenly without bruising the delicate leaves.
  7. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
  8. Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the flavorful dressing.
  9. Let it Rest: Allow the slaw to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld and the slaw soften slightly for optimal taste.

Notes

  • To keep the apples from browning, toss them immediately in a little lemon juice once sliced.
  • Toast almonds carefully to avoid burning and to bring out their full flavor and crunch.
  • This slaw is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
  • For a nuttier flavor, substitute almonds with pecans or walnuts.
  • Adjust the maple syrup amount in the dressing to your preferred sweetness level.

Keywords: Thanksgiving slaw, cranberry almond slaw, holiday side dish, cabbage slaw, healthy slaw recipe, maple dressing slaw