Tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: A Sweet-Tart Delight

Crisp autumn days call for this delightful cranberry apple coleslaw that combines tangy and sweet flavors in one refreshing dish.

The vibrant mix of crunchy cabbage and juicy fruit creates a perfect side for any meal.

Bright red cranberries peek through the creamy dressing, adding beautiful color and zesty notes.

Shredded apples bring a subtle sweetness that balances the tart berries beautifully.

Simple ingredients transform into a salad that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Serving this colorful slaw at your next gathering, where friends will be impressed by its unique combination.

You’ll want to make extra because everyone will ask for seconds of this irresistible recipe.

What Goes Well With Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Grill Juicy Proteins: Pair this tangy coleslaw with grilled chicken breasts or pork chops. The crisp, sweet-and-sour salad cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced and refreshing meal.
• Select Crisp White Wines: Enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio alongside the coleslaw. These light, acidic wines complement the salad's bright flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Serve with Hearty Sandwiches: Pile this coleslaw next to pulled pork sandwiches or classic turkey club for a delightful crunch. The salad's zingy dressing adds a zesty contrast to the substantial sandwich ingredients.
• Picnic Perfect Side: Pack this coleslaw for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or summer potlucks. Its vibrant colors and fresh taste make it a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to various main dishes.

Ways To Change Up Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Zesty Mediterranean Slaw: Replace almonds with crumbled feta cheese, swap apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar, and add chopped fresh mint for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Tropical Coleslaw Fusion: Substitute apple slices with diced mango, use coconut milk instead of mayonnaise, and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Southwest Coleslaw: Mix in diced jalapeños, replace honey with agave nectar, add chopped cilantro, and include roasted corn kernels for a southwest kick.
• Protein-Packed Green Slaw: Incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken, replace dried cranberries with edamame, and use Greek yogurt as a lighter dressing base for added protein.

FAQs For Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Why use apple cider vinegar in the dressing?

Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy, bright flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey and dried cranberries. It also helps tenderize the cabbage and enhances the overall freshness of the coleslaw.

• Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! This coleslaw actually tastes better when prepared a few hours in advance. The flavors develop and blend together, making it even more delicious when chilled.

• Is this coleslaw healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and almonds. The combination provides fiber, vitamins, and a good balance of nutrients while being relatively low in calories.

• How do I keep the apple slices from browning?

Toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the coleslaw. This will prevent oxidation and keep the apples looking fresh and crisp.

Why Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Is Fresh And Crunchy

• Burst with Vibrant Flavor Combinations: This coleslaw delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements that dance together in every bite, blending crisp apples, tart cranberries, and smooth dressing.
• Whip Up in a Flash: Quick and easy preparation means you can assemble this refreshing side dish in just minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknight meals.
• Nutrient-Packed Crunch Fest: Packed with fresh vegetables, nuts, and fruits, this coleslaw offers a nutritious punch while providing delightful texture variations from crisp cabbage to soft cranberries and crunchy almonds.
• Make-Ahead Magic: The recipe actually improves with chilling, allowing flavors to meld and intensify, making it a stress-free option for meal planning and entertaining guests.

What You’ll Need For Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Cabbage: Crunchy base for the coleslaw, provides a crisp texture and mild flavor.
• Apple: Adds sweetness and a refreshing crunch, choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
• Carrots: Brings color and extra crunch, use fresh and preferably organic carrots.

• Dried Cranberries: Introduces a tart and sweet element, adds bright color and fruity notes.
• Almonds: Provides a nutty crunch and additional protein, optional but recommended for texture.

• Mayonnaise, Apple Cider Vinegar: Creates a creamy and tangy base for the dressing, helps bind ingredients.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps balance the vinegar's acidity.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle spicy kick and depth of flavor to the dressing.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhances overall seasoning and balances the sweet and tangy elements.

How To Toss Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Together

Step 1: Chop and Prep Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh apples
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Sliced almonds
• Dried cranberries

Step 2: Whip Up Zesty Dressing

• Mayonnaise
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk ingredients until smooth and well-combined, creating a vibrant sauce that will make your coleslaw sing with flavor.

Step 3: Marry Ingredients Together

Pour the freshly whisked dressing over the chopped vegetables. Use salad tongs or large spoons to gently toss everything, ensuring each ingredient gets a delicious coating of the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Dance

Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a harmonious taste. The cooling time helps blend all the wonderful flavors together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from refrigerator and give a quick stir. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish that bursts with sweet, tangy, and crunchy goodness.

Pro Tips For Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

• Crunch Control: Slice apples just before mixing to prevent browning and maintain crisp texture.
• Dress to Impress: Whisk dressing ingredients thoroughly to ensure smooth, well-blended flavor distribution.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare coleslaw up to 4 hours in advance for deeper, more developed taste profile.
• Dietary Swap: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich version suitable for health-conscious eaters.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip almonds or substitute with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies while maintaining crunch.

How To Store Cranberry Apple Coleslaw The Right Way

• Refrigerate: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chilled to maintain crisp vegetables and prevent spoilage.
• Drain Excess Liquid: Before storing, gently drain any accumulated liquid to prevent soggy texture. Use a colander or paper towels to remove moisture.
• Avoid Freezing: Skip freezing this coleslaw as mayonnaise-based dressings separate and vegetables become watery when thawed, compromising taste and texture.
• Refresh Before Serving: If coleslaw seems dry after refrigeration, add a small splash of apple cider vinegar or extra dressing to revive its zesty flavor and moisture.

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Homemade cranberry apple coleslaw brings zesty freshness to your summer picnic table. Crisp cabbage, tart cranberries, and sweet apples create a delightful salad you’ll want to share with friends and family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Produce Ingredients:

• 4 cups green cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• ¼ cup shredded carrots

Dried Fruits and Nuts:

• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or pecans

Dressing Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Slice cabbage into thin, delicate strands and place in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a vibrant foundation for the coleslaw.
2. Dice crisp apples into uniform, bite-sized cubes, ensuring each piece will provide a sweet, refreshing crunch to the salad.
3. Scatter dried cranberries throughout the cabbage, adding bursts of tangy flavor and rich color to the mixture.
4. Grate carrots into fine, whisper-thin ribbons, introducing a subtle earthy sweetness and additional texture to the coleslaw.
5. Optional: Sprinkle sliced almonds across the vegetable blend for a delightful nutty dimension and satisfying crispness.
6. Craft a creamy dressing by whisking mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar, creating a harmonious base that balances richness and acidity.
7. Drizzle honey into the dressing, lending a gentle sweetness that complements the tart cranberries and apples.
8. Incorporate Dijon mustard to introduce a subtle, zesty undertone that elevates the entire flavor profile.
9. Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper, enhancing the overall taste complexity.
10. Gently cascade the dressing over the prepared vegetables, carefully folding to ensure every ingredient is luxuriously coated.
11. Refrigerate the coleslaw for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to intermingle and develop a more profound taste experience.
12. Serve chilled, presenting a refreshing and vibrant side dish perfect for any gathering.

Notes

• Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to create a lighter, protein-packed version with reduced calories and increased nutritional value.
• Toast almonds beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunch that elevates the entire coleslaw texture.
• Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure uniform, thin apple and cabbage slices for consistent taste and improved presentation.
• Prepare this coleslaw up to one day in advance, as the flavors develop and intensify when allowed to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg