This colorful cranberry apple coleslaw is fresh and crunchy! With juicy apples, tart cranberries, and a creamy dressing, it’s the perfect side for any meal.
I love how the sweetness of the apples balances the tanginess of the cranberries. It’s like a little party in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Using both green and red cabbage adds color and texture. If red cabbage is unavailable, stick to just green cabbage or use shredded carrots for crunch.
Apples: Gala or Fuji apples work great for their sweetness. You can use Granny Smith apples if you prefer a tart flavor. Feel free to mix different apple varieties for added complexity!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will give a tart burst, but dried cranberries are a tasty alternative. If you use dried, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up.
Mayonnaise: Not a fan of mayo? You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing or even use a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Create the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing is key in bringing everything together in this coleslaw. Here’s how to make it just right:
- Start by mixing the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a separate small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Adjust the sweetness with more honey or acidity with a bit more vinegar, according to your taste preference.
- A little salt and pepper help balance the flavors, so don’t skip this step!
Feel free to add more or less dressing based on how creamy you like your coleslaw. Enjoy making it your own!
Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large apple (such as Gala or Fuji), cored and julienned or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped roughly (or dried cranberries soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick recipe that you can throw together and let sit while you prepare the rest of your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, julienned apple, chopped cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and parsley if you like. Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
3. Dress the Coleslaw
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly so that all the veggies and fruits are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season and Chill
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you want a little more sweetness or tang, feel free to adjust the honey or vinegar. Cover these ingredients with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and let the cabbage soften slightly.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
When your coleslaw has chilled, give it one last toss before serving. Dish out this refreshing coleslaw alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on tacos! It’s a tasty addition to any meal. Enjoy the crisp, vibrant flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for green and red cabbage, feel free to use Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a different taste and texture. Just keep the total volume around 5 cups.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise for a tangy, lower-fat dressing. You can also try using a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter dressing.
How Long Does This Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
This coleslaw will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some liquid may accumulate at the bottom.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge to let the flavors develop. It will taste even better after sitting for a while!
