Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish that will brighten up any meal, then this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe is just what you need! This colorful slaw combines crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries, all tied together with a creamy dressing. It’s a family favorite in my home and perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings alike. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

What makes this coleslaw truly special is its balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness from the apples and cranberries complements the crunch of the cabbage beautifully. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or as part of a potluck spread; it’s versatile enough for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious coleslaw ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet crunch of apples and cranberries, making this dish a hit at family meals.
• Make ahead: This slaw gets better as it sits, so feel free to make it a day in advance for gatherings.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and wholesome nuts, this recipe is both healthy and satisfying.
• Beautiful presentation: The vibrant colors make this coleslaw not only tasty but also a stunning addition to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll be amazed at how these fresh items come together to create such a delightful dish.

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more crunch: Toss in some grated carrots or sliced radishes for extra texture.
• Switch up the nuts: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo for a plant-based version.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by thinly slicing the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Placing it in a large bowl gives you plenty of space to mix everything later!

Step 2: Dice the Apples

Core and dice those lovely apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Their sweetness will contrast perfectly with the savory cabbage. Add them right into the bowl with the cabbage.

Step 3: Add Dried Cranberries

Next, toss in one cup of dried cranberries. These little jewels add bursts of tartness that elevate your coleslaw. If you’re using nuts, chop them coarsely now and add them too!

Step 4: Chop Fresh Parsley

Chop the parsley finely and sprinkle it over your slaw mixture. Not only does it add freshness, but it also enhances the visual appeal.

Step 5: Whisk Together Dressing Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. This dressing is key to bringing all those flavors together!

Step 6: Season Your Dressing

Now it’s time to add celery seeds, salt, and pepper into your creamy dressing. Mix well; these tiny details make all the difference in flavor!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour your luscious dressing over the cabbage mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is as delicious as possible!

Step 8: Chill Out

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving. Chilling allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 9: Final Touches

Before serving, taste your coleslaw one last time and adjust seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can really enhance its flavor.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, serve your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw chilled as a delightful side dish that everyone will love! Enjoy every crunch!

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

Making the perfect Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to help you create a vibrant and delicious dish every time!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cabbage, crisp apples, and quality dried cranberries makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and ensure your coleslaw isn’t soggy.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow your coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully and enhances the overall taste.

• Experiment with Apples: Different apple varieties will change the flavor profile of your coleslaw. Honeycrisp adds sweetness, while Granny Smith brings a tart crunch. Feel free to mix two kinds for a delightful twist!

• Customize Your Nuts: While walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, you can also try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option. These alternatives provide texture without compromising on health benefits.

• Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can tweak the amount of honey or maple syrup in the dressing. Start with less and gradually add more to find that perfect balance between sweet and tangy.

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

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options! You can present it in various ways that enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or even mint leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Toasted Nuts: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans just before serving for an added crunch.
• Apple Slices: Garnish with thin apple slices arranged artfully around the coleslaw for an inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Seasoned grilled chicken breasts make an excellent protein option that complements the crunchy slaw perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add warmth and color to your meal.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes well with the tangy coleslaw, making for a satisfying combination.

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw truly shines as a side dish that can elevate any meal! Enjoy experimenting with these tips and pairing suggestions to make it your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time and stored, making it an ideal side dish for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this coleslaw.
• Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• This coleslaw is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat!
• If it has been frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful dish? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other fruits in my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or grapes. Just remember to adjust the sweetness of your dressing accordingly.

How do I make my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw healthier?

You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, while still keeping that creamy texture.

How long does Cranberry Apple Coleslaw last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this coleslaw can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Is there a vegan option for this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Yes! You can easily make it vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a plant-based version or using avocado instead for creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw as much as I do! It’s a wonderful addition to any meal and brings a burst of flavor and color to your table. Whether you serve it at gatherings or as part of your weekly meal prep, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!