Description
A refreshing and vibrant Apple Cranberry Coleslaw combining crunchy green and red cabbage with sweet green apple and tart dried cranberries, tossed in a creamy, tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. This no-cook side dish is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, or anytime you want a healthy, flavorful salad with a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Slaw Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 green apple, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Dressing
- 1/3 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
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, grated carrot, julienned or thinly sliced green apple, dried cranberries, chopped green onions, and chopped pecans or walnuts if using. Mix well to evenly distribute all the fresh ingredients.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing provides a creamy and tangy coating for the slaw.
- Toss and Coat: Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is nicely coated with the dressing, enhancing the flavor and texture of the salad.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the ingredients to soften just enough while maintaining their crunch.
- Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw a good toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly for a fresh, crisp, and flavorful bite every time.
Notes
- Best served chilled to maintain crispness and flavor.
- Can be prepared up to one day in advance and refrigerated to deepen the flavors.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute regular mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise.
- Add poppy seeds or sunflower seeds for extra texture and a fun crunch.
- Ensure apples are sliced thinly to blend well with the slaw and avoid overpowering the texture.
