Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe is a vibrant, fresh dish that brings together the sweet crunch of apples and the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped in a creamy dressing. This coleslaw is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner. With its colorful ingredients and delightful flavors, it stands out as an appealing side dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes just 20 minutes of prep time, making it a quick side dish for any meal.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of apples and cranberries adds a refreshing taste that brightens up any plate.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues, this coleslaw complements a variety of main dishes.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from nuts and fruits, it’s as good for you as it is delicious.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the coleslaw in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw efficiently, having the right tools on hand will streamline your process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife or mandoline
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife or mandoline: Ensures even slicing of cabbage for a uniform texture.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth dressing by thoroughly combining the ingredients.

Ingredients

Vibrant Cranberry Apple Coleslaw with a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect side dish for any occasion!

• 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
• 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)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Dice the Apples

Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Add to the bowl with the cabbage.

Step 3: Combine Dried Cranberries

Add the dried cranberries to the bowl. If using nuts, chop them coarsely and add them as well.

Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley

Chop the parsley finely and add it to the bowl.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard.

Step 6: Season the Dressing

Add celery seeds, salt, and pepper to the dressing. Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 10: Serve

Serve chilled as a side dish.

This recipe yields about 6–8 servings with a prep time of just 20 minutes! Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw at your next meal!

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

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, this coleslaw pairs well with various dishes.

As a Side Dish

• It complements grilled meats beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Pair it with roasted chicken for a delightful contrast of flavors.

In Tacos

• Use it as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos to add a zesty twist.
• It enhances the overall taste and adds texture to soft tortillas.

On Sandwiches

• Add a generous scoop to pulled pork or turkey sandwiches for extra flavor.
• The creamy dressing balances the savory elements perfectly.

As a Salad Base

• Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for an easy salad option.
• Top it with grilled chicken for a complete meal.

At Potlucks

• This coleslaw is always a hit at gatherings and easy to transport.
• Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any buffet table.

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

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your coleslaw, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and apples ensure maximum crunch and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Tailor the dressing’s sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
• Let it chill: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
• Add textures: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
• Experiment with fruits: Try adding other fruits like raisins or pineapple for unique flavors.
• Season generously: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken – Juicy, seasoned grilled chicken provides protein and complements the tangy slaw.
2. BBQ Ribs – The sweet and smoky flavors of ribs pair excellently with the freshness of coleslaw.
3. Cornbread – Moist cornbread adds a delightful texture contrast and absorbs any extra dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and balance against the coolness of the slaw.
5. Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans enhance the dish’s comfort food vibe while providing heartiness.
6. Potato Salad – Combining two salads creates variety on your plate, pleasing different palates.
7. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad offers another layer of richness alongside your coleslaw.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains add nutrition and visual appeal to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using the wrong cabbage: Not all cabbages work well in coleslaw. Stick with green cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
• Skipping the chilling time: This recipe tastes better when allowed to chill. Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful dish.
• Overdressing: Too much dressing can drown the fresh flavors of the ingredients. Start with a little, then adjust as needed.
• Not tasting before serving: Always taste your coleslaw before serving. This allows you to balance flavors and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Using old apples: Fresh apples add crunch and sweetness. Avoid using apples that are past their prime for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep it airtight: Store your coleslaw in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Shelf life: It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Avoid sogginess: If you anticipate leftovers, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

• Freezing not recommended: Coleslaw does not freeze well due to its high water content. It may become mushy once thawed.
• Fresh is best: For optimal taste and texture, prepare only what you plan to consume within a few days.

Reheating Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.

What is Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a vibrant salad made with shredded cabbage, diced apples, dried cranberries, nuts, and a creamy dressing. It’s a healthy side dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Yes! You can add different fruits like raisins or oranges, swap out nuts for seeds, or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.

How do I make my coleslaw less tangy?

If your coleslaw is too tangy, you can add more honey or maple syrup to balance out the acidity from the apple cider vinegar.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients used in Cranberry Apple Coleslaw are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that any added ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. Feel free to customize it with seasonal fruits or different nuts based on your preferences. Try this delightful recipe today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of apples with the tartness of cranberries. This delightful coleslaw features crunchy green cabbage, tossed in a creamy dressing that enhances its flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 6 cups), finely shredded
• 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Core and dice the apples into small pieces; add them to the bowl with cabbage.
3. Add the dried cranberries and chopped nuts (if using).
4. Finely chop the parsley and mix it into the bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until smooth.
6. Season the dressing with celery seeds, salt, and pepper; whisk until combined.
7. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are coated.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 5mg