The crunch of fresh cabbage mingles with the sweet-tartness of crisp apples and tangy cranberries in this delightful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. The vivid colors alone can make any plate pop, inviting you to dig in before you even take a whiff of its mouthwatering aroma. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a holiday feast, or simply a Tuesday night dinner, this coleslaw brings a burst of joy to any occasion.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is Apple Cranberry Coleslaw made of?
- How can I make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw vegan?
- Can I prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw in advance?
- What dishes pair well with Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?
- Conclusion for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw:
- 📖 Recipe Card
You might be wondering where this coleslaw came from and why it holds such a special place in my heart. Well, picture this: A family picnic years ago, where I made my debut as the “Coleslaw Queen.” As I watched everyone dive into my creation with delight, I realized that the secret wasn’t just in the ingredients but in the memories shared over every crunchy bite. crunchy broccoli salad From backyard gatherings to potluck parties, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw has become my go-to dish that never fails to impress. For more inspiration, check out this Blood Orange Salad recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
- The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a deliciously balanced taste.
- Its vibrant colors not only catch the eye but also brighten up any meal.
- Perfect as a side dish for picnics or barbecues, it’s versatile enough to complement various main courses.
Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Cabbage: Use about half a medium head; look for firm cabbage without blemishes for the best crunch.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; shred them yourself or buy pre-shredded for convenience.
- Red Apples: Pick crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness and delicious texture in the slaw.
- Dried Cranberries: These little gems provide tanginess; opt for unsweetened varieties if you’re watching your sugar intake.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayonnaise that adds creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
- Cider Vinegar: This zesty vinegar gives your dressing a nice kick; feel free to use lemon juice as an alternative.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of sweetness balances out the tartness from the cranberries and vinegar.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust based on your personal taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by shredding the green cabbage and carrots. You can use a sharp knife or a grater—whichever makes you feel like a culinary ninja! Aim for thin strips so they blend well with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Chop Those Apples
Core and chop the red apples into bite-sized pieces. There’s no need to peel them; their skins add color and extra fiber! Toss them with a little lemon juice if you’re worried about browning while you work on everything else.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped apples, and dried cranberries. The vibrant colors will have you feeling like an artist mixing paint!
Step 4: Make Your Dressing
In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste it—this is your chance to adjust sweetness or tanginess based on your preference!
Step 5: Dress the Slaw
Pour your dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is coated evenly. Don’t shy away from getting your hands dirty; it’s part of the fun!
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Cover your coleslaw and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows all those flavors to mingle beautifully! When ready to serve, give it one last toss and enjoy!
Transfer to plates alongside grilled chicken or veggie burgers for a refreshing crunch that complements any meal perfectly.
You Must Know
- This vibrant Apple Cranberry Coleslaw not only adds crunch and zing to your meals, but it also makes for a stunning side dish.
- With its colorful presentation and delightful flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any potluck or barbecue.
- Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by shredding cabbage and carrots while you chop apples and measure out the cranberries. Mix the dressing in a separate bowl, combine everything, and let it chill for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your taste. Try adding nuts for crunch, using different fruits like pears or raisins, or spice things up with a hint of ginger or cinnamon!
Storing & Reheating
Store coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; enjoy it cold for that refreshing crunch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Letting the coleslaw sit for at least an hour enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Finally, don’t skip the apple cider vinegar; it adds that perfect tang!
I remember making this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw for a summer barbecue last year. My friends devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! Their rave reviews made my day.
FAQs:
What is Apple Cranberry Coleslaw made of?
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw features a delightful mix of shredded cabbage, fresh apples, and dried cranberries. You can enhance the flavor using a tangy dressing made from apple cider vinegar, honey, and a touch of mustard. This combination delivers a crunchy texture with sweet and tart notes that make it perfect for any gathering or meal.
For more inspiration, check out this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe.
How can I make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw vegan?
To make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. Ensure that all other ingredients are plant-based. This way, you maintain the coleslaw’s delicious flavor while adhering to a vegan diet. The fresh apples and cranberries will still provide sweetness and brightness.
Can I prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw in advance! However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This prevents the cabbage from becoming soggy. When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last for 1-2 days while maintaining its crunchiness and flavor.
What dishes pair well with Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, turkey burgers, or roasted vegetables. It adds a refreshing crunch to heavier meals and complements savory dishes perfectly. Whether served at a picnic or alongside a holiday feast, this coleslaw enhances your dining experience with its vibrant flavors.
Conclusion for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw:
In summary, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a deliciously refreshing dish that combines crunchy cabbage with sweet apples and tangy cranberries. Its versatile nature allows for easy customization to suit dietary preferences, including vegan options. refreshing summer salad Preparing this coleslaw in advance ensures a hassle-free addition to any meal. deviled egg pasta salad spinach salad with apples Enjoy this vibrant salad at your next gathering for a delightful flavor boost!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that beautifully combines crunchy green cabbage, sweet red apples, and tangy dried cranberries. This easy-to-make coleslaw offers a delightful balance of flavors and colors, making it the perfect accompaniment for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy this crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 medium red apples (cored and chopped)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Shred the green cabbage and carrots using a knife or grater.
- Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces; toss with lemon juice if desired.
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, and cranberries.
- In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mix and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
