Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Refreshing Twist You’ll Love

Introduction to Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

There’s something beautifully refreshing about a well-made coleslaw, isn’t there? This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw brings together crunchy textures and vibrant flavors that dance on your palate. For busy days when you need a quick, delightful side dish to add color to your family table or impress your friends at a gathering, look no further! Imagine the sweet-tart crunch of apples mingling with tangy dried cranberries. It’s not just a salad; it’s a moment of joy on a plate, perfect for enhancing any meal you serve.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is all about simplicity and flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious side that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to holiday ham. The bright colors make it an eye-catching dish, while the balance of sweet and tangy will please even the pickiest family members. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies without a fuss—everyone wins!

Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Gathering the right ingredients for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a delightful way to start your culinary adventure. This coleslaw features a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making every bite a refreshing experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Green cabbage: The backbone of any coleslaw, its crispiness provides a satisfying crunch!
  • Apples: Choose sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for that juicy sweetness. They’ll brighten the dish!
  • Dried cranberries: These little gems add a burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the apples.
  • Walnuts or pecans: Optional, but they add a nutty crunch. Feel free to skip or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option!
  • Fresh parsley: This herb brings a pop of color and a refreshing taste. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in a bit of green!
  • Mayonnaise: It provides creaminess to the dressing. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully!
  • Apple cider vinegar: This adds a zingy tang that elevates the flavors of the slaw.
  • Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness. Adjust according to your palate—everyone loves a little personalization!
  • Dijon mustard: It brings a pleasant depth to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Celery seeds: These tiny seeds pack a subtle, earthy flavor that’s classic in coleslaw.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Remember, you can always adjust these to suit your taste!

You’ll find the measurements for all these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Enjoy shopping for your flavorful creations!

How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Creating this refreshing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a colorful dish that bursts with flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by shredding the cabbage finely. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even, thin strips. Aim for 1/8-inch thick shreds; this ensures a uniform texture. Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl. Its crispness is essential for a crunchy base that holds up well against the other ingredients.

Step 2: Dice the Apples

Next, core and dice your apples into small, bite-sized pieces. I find it best to slice them first and then chop into cubes. Keep them uniform for consistency in every mouthful. This will allow them to blend harmoniously with the cabbage, ensuring each bite is a delightful mix of sweetness and crunch.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Nuts

Now, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show: the dried cranberries! Toss them into the bowl along with the diced apples. If you’re feeling adventurous, add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Just remember, the nuts enhance texture, making each bite even more enjoyable!

Step 4: Mix Fresh Parsley

Chop the fresh parsley finely, then sprinkle it into your cabbage and apple mixture. This vibrant herb adds freshness and color, making the salad even more appealing. Chopping parsley can be a bit tricky; remember to gather the leaves tightly before slicing to make it easier!

Step 5: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. This is where the magic happens! Mix well until smooth and creamy. A well-blended dressing is crucial; it ties all the flavors together beautifully, so don’t skimp on this step!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour that creamy dressing over your cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture. Gently toss everything together until every piece is coated with the dressing. Be careful not to bruise the delicate ingredients; you want a lovely, cohesive salad that still has that great crunch.

Step 7: Refrigerate Before Serving

Once everything is mixed, cover your coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while giving the cabbage a tender crunch. For the best experience, wait an hour if you can!

Tips for Success

  • For consistency, aim for even-sized apple and cabbage pieces when chopping.
  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—crisp cabbage and juicy apples make a world of difference!
  • If preparing in advance, leave the dressing off until just before serving to maintain crunch.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference—it’s your coleslaw!
  • Dress up leftovers in a wrap for a delicious, quick lunch!

Equipment Needed

  • Knife or Mandoline: A sharp knife for shredding cabbage and dicing apples. A mandoline can speed things up!
  • Cutting Board: Essential for safe chopping. A large one gives you plenty of space!
  • Mixing Bowl: A big bowl is perfect for tossing everything together.
  • Whisk: For creating that creamy dressing. A fork works in a pinch!
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for precision in your ingredients.

Variations of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

  • Vegan Option: Replace mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or avocado for a creamy texture.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat!
  • Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon to brighten the flavors with a fresh, zesty kick.
  • Fruit Medley: Swap out some apples for pears or add chopped pineapple for a tropical flair.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure that all your dressing ingredients are gluten-free, especially if using store-bought versions.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

  • Pair with grilled chicken or pork for a colorful, well-rounded meal.
  • Serve alongside a hearty sandwich or burger to add a refreshing crunch.
  • Presentation is key! Use a vibrant platter to showcase the bright colors of the coleslaw.
  • Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top for an elegant touch.
  • Complement with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing sip.

FAQs about Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Can I make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw a day ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it for maximum crunch.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative! You can also opt for a plant-based yogurt or even a creamy avocado blend for a refreshing twist in your coleslaw.

How long will this coleslaw keep in the fridge?
The flavor of your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw will last about 3-5 days in the fridge. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crunch and vibrant flavor.

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this coleslaw are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any store-bought dressings are certified gluten-free if that’s a concern.

What types of apples work best?
For the best taste and texture, I recommend sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. Their sweetness pairs so well with the tartness of the cranberries, making your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw irresistible!

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up this delightful culinary journey with Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, I hope you feel inspired to brighten your meals with its vibrant flavors and textures. This simple yet stunning dish is a reminder that even with our hectic lives, we can create something wonderful in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, I guarantee it will spark joy and connection. So, roll up your sleeves, mix those ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of sharing a deliciously fresh coleslaw that everyone will love!

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Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Refreshing Twist You’ll Love

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A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw featuring the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries and apples, perfect for any occasion.

  • Author: Emma Rossi
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Place in a large bowl.
  2. Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Add to the bowl with the cabbage.
  3. Add the dried cranberries to the bowl. If using nuts, chop them coarsely and add them as well.
  4. Chop the parsley finely and add it to the bowl.
  5. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard.
  6. Add the celery seeds, salt, and pepper to the dressing.
  7. Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
  8. Pour the dressing over the cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl.
  9. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing.
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving.
  11. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  12. Serve chilled as a side dish.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.
  • This coleslaw can be made a day in advance for the flavors to meld.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the dressing according to personal taste by adding more honey or maple syrup.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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