Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Name: Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix); 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional); 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans (optional, for crunch); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste

Author: Lora

Published: May 28, 2025

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Introduction to Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

When life feels like a whirlwind, and dinner time creeps up unexpectedly, having a go-to recipe can be a lifesaver. That’s where my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw comes in! This refreshing twist on a classic salad brings together crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries, creating a beautiful dish that’s perfect for both family dinners and festive gatherings.

It’s not just quick and easy, but it also impresses your loved ones with its vibrant colors and delightful flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make your table shine!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

If you’re a busy mom or professional, this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is your new best friend! It’s quick to whip up, taking just 15 minutes. The blend of crunchy textures and sweet-tart flavors elevates any meal. Plus, it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or simple dinners. With its vibrant colors, this salad adds a cheerful touch to your table, making even hectic nights feel special.

Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Let’s gather our vibrant ingredients for this delightful Cranberry Apple Coleslaw!

Start with shredded green cabbage, which is the main base, adding crunch and freshness. You can also use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix, if you’re pressed for time.

Next, we’ll introduce a large apple—Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully. Their sweetness complements the tanginess of dried cranberries, which add a burst of flavor and chewiness.

If you want extra color and texture, toss in some shredded carrots. They brighten the mix! You can also add sliced almonds or pecans for some delightful crunch.

For the dressing, you’ll need creamy mayonnaise, but feel free to swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick, while honey (or maple syrup, if you’re in the mood) brings a hint of sweetness.

Don’t forget Dijon mustard for a touch of zest and flavor balance!

Finally, season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to round it all out.

Remember, you can find the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this fabulous Cranberry Apple Coleslaw! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a colorful salad ready to impress in no time.

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables and Fruits

Start by grabbing a large bowl and tossing in the shredded cabbage. This is the crunchy foundation of our coleslaw.

Next, add in those delightful apple slices. The sweetness is just heavenly!

Throw in the dried cranberries as well. They add a chewiness that pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies.

If you’ve opted for shredded carrots and sliced almonds, now’s the time to include them. They’ll bring extra color and crunch to the mix.

Gently fold everything together for a colorful medley—this step is where the magic begins!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, let’s whip up the dressing. Begin with the creamy mayonnaise.

Add the apple cider vinegar for that zing we all love. Then, drizzle in the honey or maple syrup, whichever tickles your taste buds.

Don’t forget the Dijon mustard! It adds a delightful layer of flavor.

Finish it off with some salt and pepper. Use a whisk and blend it all until it’s smooth and creamy.

Trust me, this dressing is the heartbeat of our Cranberry Apple Coleslaw!

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Now comes the fun part! Pour that luscious dressing over your coleslaw mixture.

Gently toss everything together until every ingredient is beautifully coated.

You’ll want to see the colors pop!

This homely dance of flavors will create a vibrant dish everyone will love!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

After mixing, it’s time to give your coleslaw a little beauty rest in the fridge.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

This chilling time allows those flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a cohesive taste sensation!

When you’re ready to serve, just grab a serving spoon and watch everyone rave about your amazing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.

Tips for Success

Chill this coleslaw for longer than 30 minutes if you have time; it only gets better!
Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or a splash of maple syrup to taste.
For a crunchier texture, add the nuts just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Feel free to use leftover coleslaw as a topping for sandwiches or wraps.
Experiment with different apples to find your favorite combination!

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: A standard bowl works fine, but a pasta bowl is fantastic for tossing.
Small mixing bowl: Any small bowl will do for the dressing.
Whisk: If you don’t have one, a fork can work in a pinch!
Cutting board and knife: Essential for slicing apples and shredding cabbage.
Serving spoon: For presenting your lovely coleslaw!

Variations of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

For a zesty kick, add a sprinkle of lemon juice or lime juice to the dressing!
Switch up the fruits by adding diced pears or mandarin oranges for added sweetness.
For a spicy twist, include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dressing.
Go vegan by replacing mayonnaise with tahini or a plant-based yogurt.
Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra layer of flavor!

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Pair this vibrant coleslaw with grilled chicken or fish for a delicious meal!
Serve it alongside crispy tacos for a refreshing contrast.
Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for an elegant touch.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Garnish with extra cranberries or nuts for a beautiful presentation!

FAQs about Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

I’ve gathered some common questions about my delightful Cranberry Apple Coleslaw for you! Let’s dive in.

Can I make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead is a great idea. It allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to store it in the fridge covered. The longer it sits, the tastier it gets!

What type of apples work best for this coleslaw?

I recommend using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples. Both varieties offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making your coleslaw delightful.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While dried cranberries provide that lovely chewiness, you can certainly try using fresh cranberries. Just keep in mind that fresh cranberries are quite tart, so you may need to adjust the sweetness of the dressing!

How long does Cranberry Apple Coleslaw last in the fridge?

Your coleslaw will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle.

Can I customize the nuts in the coleslaw?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds. Just remember to add them right before serving for that satisfying crunch!

Final Thoughts on Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

There’s something truly special about serving up a vibrant bowl of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw. The crispness of fresh cabbage, the sweetness of apples, and the tart smile of cranberries create a symphony of flavors.

Whether it’s a regular weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, I can always count on this salad to elevate the meal.

It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about those moments around the table. So, grab a bowl, mix it up, and watch as this delightful dish brings everyone together, sharing smiles and happy memories!