Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw, combining crisp cabbage with sweet apples and tangy dried cranberries. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, offering a balance of crunchy texture and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green or red cabbage
• 1 large apple, julienned or thinly sliced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 1 carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)

Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. Julienne or thinly slice the apple. Shred the carrot and thinly slice the red onion, if using.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, apple slices, dried cranberries, shredded carrot, and sliced onion.
4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
6. Step 6: Just before serving, sprinkle the coleslaw with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
• Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for warm spice notes.
• Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or raisins if preferred.
• Use a mix of green and red cabbage for extra color and flavor variety.

Storage

Store the cranberry apple coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the apples may soften over time. For best texture, add crunchy toppings like walnuts just before serving. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this coleslaw in advance?

Yes, preparing it a few hours ahead or the day before helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just add nuts or seeds right before serving to maintain crunch.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears or firm grapes work well as substitutes and complement the tangy cranberries and cabbage nicely.

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 127 reviews

This refreshing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw combines crisp cabbage, sweet-tart apples, and chewy dried cranberries tossed in a creamy honey-apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfectly balanced with crunchy walnuts or sunflower seeds, this colorful slaw is a delightful side dish that’s quick to prepare and ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a vibrant addition to any meal.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Slaw

• 4 cups shredded green or red cabbage
• 1 large apple, julienned or thinly sliced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 1 carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)

Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Produce: Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. Slice the apple thinly in julienne style, shred the carrot, and thinly slice the red onion if using.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrot, and sliced red onion (if included).
4. Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed slaw and stir thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the tangy sweetness.
6. Serve and Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the coleslaw with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds to add a crunchy texture contrast.

Notes

• For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
• Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup to taste.
• The red onion is optional but adds a subtle sharpness that complements the sweetness.
• Walnuts can be substituted with sunflower seeds or other nuts based on preference or allergies.
• Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for a more intense flavor meld.

Keywords: cranberry apple coleslaw, coleslaw recipe, healthy coleslaw, salad with apples and cranberries, creamy coleslaw, easy side dish