If you’re searching for a bright, refreshing side dish that lights up the table, look no further than Apple Coleslaw. This colorful slaw is the perfect blend of crisp cabbage, sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and a creamy-tangy dressing that ties it all together. Every bite delivers the best of contrasting flavors and textures, making it an irresistible companion to your favorite mains—think juicy grilled meats, hearty sandwiches, or just about anything off the picnic table. Whether you’re a longtime coleslaw lover or just dipping your toe into new salad territory, Apple Coleslaw promises a fresh twist on a classic that might just become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Apple Coleslaw lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a starring role, bringing its unique flavor, crunchy texture, or pop of color—proof that you don’t need a long list to hit all the right notes. Make sure to use the freshest produce and creamy mayo for the very best results.
- Green cabbage: Offers the perfect crunch and a mild, classic base for the slaw.
- Red cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a hint of peppery flavor for visual and taste contrast.
- Apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala): Bring a lovely sweetness and juicy texture; slice them thin for the best bite.
- Shredded carrots: Boost both crunch and natural sweetness, making the slaw more inviting.
- Chopped green onions: Provide a zesty, gentle onion kick that wakes up the whole bowl.
- Mayonnaise: Delivers a creamy backbone that perfectly coats and binds the ingredients.
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives a bright, tangy balance for that irresistible zing.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweetness rounds out the dressing and highlights the apples.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle depth and a hint of gentle heat.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
- Black pepper: Lends a mild earthy spice to keep every bite lively.
How to Make Apple Coleslaw
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Apples
Start by shredding the green and red cabbage; aim for a fine, even shred to keep every forkful balanced. Wash, core, and julienne or thinly slice your apples—no need to peel unless you prefer it. Add the cabbage, apples, shredded carrots, and green onions to a roomy mixing bowl, so you have plenty of space for tossing later.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, your choice of honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture turns silky and everything blends smoothly—taste and adjust for tang and sweetness if you like.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Use tongs or clean hands to toss until every piece is evenly coated and sparkling with flavor. Make sure to get down to the bottom of the bowl so nothing is left dry—it’s all about that luscious, even coating.
Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Bloom
Cover and refrigerate your Apple Coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This short rest lets the flavors meld together and gives the veggies a chance to absorb the creamy goodness. Right before serving, give it one last toss and check if it needs a sprinkle of extra salt or pepper.
How to Serve Apple Coleslaw
Garnishes
Apple Coleslaw looks and tastes even better with a little something on top. Try scattering a handful of chopped fresh herbs—parsley or chives are both great choices. For extra crunch, toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas add a delightful finish. A few additional apple matchsticks also highlight the apple theme beautifully.
Side Dishes
This slaw truly shines alongside all sorts of savory dishes. It’s classic with barbecue meats, especially pulled pork or smoky chicken, but also holds its own next to fish tacos, veggie burgers, and hearty sandwiches. If you’re building a picnic plate, Apple Coleslaw is right at home beside potato salads, grilled corn, and baked beans.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning Apple Coleslaw into individual mason jars for a picnic-ready treat, or pile it high on sliders for bursts of freshness in every bite. For potlucks, serve it in a big, shallow platter and surround the edges with extra apple slices and herbs. Consider using it as a vibrant topper for tacos, or as a filling for wraps and pitas to add sweet crunch to lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Apple Coleslaw, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay crisp and delicious for about one to two days—just note that the apples might release a bit of juice, but that only adds extra flavor. Always give it a good toss before serving leftovers.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for Apple Coleslaw. The creamy dressing and fresh produce don’t take well to the chill, as both the texture and flavor will be compromised once thawed. Fresh is best for this vibrant slaw, so aim to enjoy it within a couple days.
Reheating
Since Apple Coleslaw is a cold, creamy side, there’s really no need—or easy way—to reheat. If your fridge-cold slaw feels a bit too chilly, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors perk up again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Gala are favorites for their crispness and sweetness, you can use any apple you have on hand. For a tart note, try Granny Smith; for extra crunch, Pink Lady is a delicious pick. Just slice your apples thinly for the best texture.
Is it possible to make Apple Coleslaw vegan?
Yes! Swap in your favorite vegan mayonnaise and use maple syrup instead of honey for a completely plant-based Apple Coleslaw. The result is just as creamy, tangy, and satisfying as the original.
Can I prepare Apple Coleslaw ahead of time?
Definitely. You can shred and chop all the veggies and apples earlier in the day, then mix with the dressing up to a few hours before serving. For the freshest taste, add the dressing shortly before your meal and store everything covered in the fridge.
What can I do if my Apple Coleslaw tastes too sweet?
If your slaw leans a bit sweet, try adding a splash more apple cider vinegar or a touch of lemon juice to brighten things up. A pinch of extra salt can also help balance the sweetness and pull the flavors together.
How do I keep the apples from browning in Apple Coleslaw?
The acidic dressing in Apple Coleslaw is usually enough to keep apples from browning, especially if you toss everything together right away. For extra peace of mind, you can toss the sliced apples with a bit of lemon juice before adding to the mix.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as easy as it is crowd-pleasing, Apple Coleslaw needs to make the top of your must-try recipes. It’s the best of juicy apples and crunchy cabbage, all bound in a creamy dressing you’ll want to drizzle over everything. Try it at your next cookout or weeknight dinner and see how everyone goes back for seconds!
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Apple Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Coleslaw recipe combines crunchy green and red cabbage with sweet apples, carrots, and a creamy dressing for a refreshing side dish. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a topping for sandwiches!
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), julienned or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, apples, carrots, and green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a tangier slaw, add extra vinegar or a splash of lemon juice.
- This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or pulled pork sliders.
- Best enjoyed within 1–2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
