Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of cabbage with the sweet and tart flavors of apples and cranberries. This coleslaw is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for your favorite meals. Its creamy, tangy dressing enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This coleslaw comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an easy addition to any meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, holiday gatherings, or weeknight dinners; it complements various main dishes.
- Great Make-Ahead Option: The flavors develop beautifully when refrigerated, allowing you to prepare it in advance.
- Customizable Recipe: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences, such as using different nuts or adding other fruits.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients without spilling.
- Sharp knife or mandoline: Ensures even and thin slices of cabbage for a better texture in your coleslaw.
- Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the dressing ingredients without cluttering your workspace.
Ingredients
Vibrant Cranberry Apple Coleslaw with a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect side dish for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 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)
How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Cabbage
Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Place in a large bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Add to the bowl with the cabbage.
Step 3: Add Dried Cranberries
Add the dried cranberries to the bowl. If using nuts, chop them coarsely and add them as well.
Step 4: Incorporate Fresh Parsley
Chop the parsley finely and add it to the bowl.
Step 5: Mix the Dressing
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard.
Step 6: Season the Dressing
Add the celery seeds, salt, and pepper to the dressing. Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 9: Serve Chilled
Serve chilled as a delicious side dish that everyone will love!
How to Serve Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner addition, here are some creative serving suggestions.
As a Standalone Salad
- Serve it chilled as a light lunch option, topped with grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
With Barbecue Dishes
- Pair it with barbecue ribs or pulled pork to add a tangy crunch that balances the rich flavors of the meat.
Tacos and Wraps
- Use it as a topping for fish tacos or in wraps to introduce a crunchy texture and zesty flavor.
At Potlucks and Picnics
- Bring it to gatherings as a refreshing side; its colorful presentation will attract attention while providing a healthy choice.
On Sandwiches
- Add a scoop to your turkey or ham sandwich for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
How to Perfect Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
To achieve the best version of this coleslaw, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Choose the right apples: Opt for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness and crunch.
- Shred cabbage finely: Aim for thin shreds, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even coating with the dressing.
- Make it ahead: Prepare your coleslaw in advance; letting it sit for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste before serving; you may want to add more honey or maple syrup depending on your preference.
- Add crunch: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for an additional delightful texture.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh dill or mint alongside parsley for an exciting flavor twist.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
This coleslaw complements many dishes wonderfully. Here are some ideal side dishes that pair well with Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.
Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned simply are perfect alongside this crunchy salad.Baked Salmon
The richness of baked salmon offers a beautiful contrast to the tangy slaw.Vegetable Stir-Fry
Brightly colored vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce provide vibrant flavors that work well together.Cornbread Muffins
Sweet cornbread muffins add warmth and comfort, making them an excellent pairing.Quinoa Salad
A protein-packed quinoa salad can create a wholesome meal when served with coleslaw.Stuffed Peppers
Flavorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat make an appealing plate alongside the slaw.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Incorrect Cabbage Shredding – Shred the cabbage too thick, and it won’t mix well with other ingredients. Aim for thin shreds about 1/8 inch thick.
- Overdressing the Salad – Adding too much dressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed for flavor.
- Using Unripe Apples – Unripe apples can make your coleslaw taste sour. Choose sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for better flavor.
- Skipping Refrigeration – If you don’t refrigerate before serving, the flavors won’t meld properly. Chill it for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Not tasting before serving can lead to bland coleslaw. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in cabbage and apples.
- If necessary, freeze without dressing and consume within a month.
Reheating Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.
Can I use different nuts in my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?
Yes! Almonds or sunflower seeds also work well and add a nice crunch.
How long does Cranberry Apple Coleslaw last?
It lasts up to three days in the fridge when stored properly.
What if I want a vegan version of this recipe?
You can substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or yogurt for a delicious vegan option.
Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for even better flavor. Just remember to cover it well.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite nuts or fruits. It’s perfect as a side dish for any gathering or family meal. Give it a try, and enjoy the refreshing flavors!
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that brings together the crispiness of green cabbage, the sweetness of fresh apples, and the tartness of dried cranberries. This healthy slaw is perfect for any gathering, potluck, or weekday meal, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, this coleslaw not only looks appealing but also packs a nutritional punch. With ingredients that are easy to customize, you can make it your own by adding different nuts or fruits. This coleslaw is sure to be a hit at your next event!
- Total Time: 22 minute
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (finely shredded)
- 2 medium apples (cored and diced)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- celery seeds
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Thinly slice the cabbage and place in a large bowl.
- Core and dice the apples; add them to the bowl with cabbage.
- Stir in dried cranberries and chopped nuts if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey/maple syrup, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture; toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness. For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or yogurt. This slaw can be made ahead of time for better flavor development.
