Let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish—cranberry apple coleslaw! This vibrant and refreshing salad has been a staple at every family gathering I can remember. I still recall the first time I made it for a picnic; everyone was raving about the crunchy cabbage paired with the sweet apples and tangy cranberries. It’s such a crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up! Just mix everything together, let it chill, and voilà! You’ve got a beautiful dish that’s not only delicious but also adds a pop of color to your table. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large apple, diced (I love using a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp for that extra kick!)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available, just adjust the sweetness!)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (this gives the coleslaw that creamy goodness)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons honey (feel free to adjust this to your taste—more honey for sweeter, less for tart!)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
With all these fresh ingredients combined, you’re on your way to a deliciously crunchy, sweet, and tangy coleslaw that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Getting your cranberry apple coleslaw ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous side dish in no time. Let’s dive right in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded green and red cabbage. The mix of colors not only looks amazing but also adds different textures!
- Next, toss in your diced apple and chopped cranberries. You’ll want to mix those in gently so they stay nice and intact.
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens—tangy, sweet, and oh-so-delicious!
- Once your dressing is well combined, pour it over the cabbage mixture. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there (or use a spatula) and toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated beautifully.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together, making each bite even more scrumptious!
And just like that, you’ve got a refreshing and vibrant cranberry apple coleslaw ready to impress at your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a refreshing twist on classic coleslaw that adds a burst of flavor!
- The crunch of fresh cabbage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of apples and tartness of cranberries.
- Super easy to make—just mix and chill for a hassle-free side dish!
- Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer barbecues.
- Loaded with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your meals.
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it!
- Customization is a breeze—feel free to tweak the sweetness or add nuts for extra crunch!
Tips for Success
To make sure your cranberry apple coleslaw turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way!
- Choose the right apples: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples. Fuji and Granny Smith work wonderfully together, giving you that delightful contrast!
- Don’t skip chilling: Letting the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes is key. It not only enhances the flavors but also helps soften the cabbage just enough for a tender crunch.
- Adjust the dressing: If you find the dressing too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of water or additional apple cider vinegar. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency!
- Be careful with salt: Since the mayonnaise can be a bit salty, taste your coleslaw after mixing in the dressing. You might find you want less salt than the recipe suggests!
- Experiment with add-ins: Want to take it up a notch? Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or even a handful of raisins for extra sweetness!
- Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for a big meal, you can make this coleslaw a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and it’ll be even tastier the next day!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a cranberry apple coleslaw that’s not only beautiful but bursting with flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
It’s always great to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one cup of this delicious cranberry apple coleslaw:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But overall, this coleslaw is a healthy addition to your meals, packed with vitamins and nutrients from those fresh veggies and fruits. Enjoy it guilt-free!
FAQ About Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! I love making this cranberry apple coleslaw a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen and meld together, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve. Just give it a good toss before serving, and you’re all set!
What type of apples work best?
When it comes to apples, I’m a huge fan of using a mix for that perfect balance of flavors! Sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp bring a delightful sweetness, while tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice zing. This combination really enhances the overall taste of the coleslaw, creating a lovely contrast that everyone will enjoy!
How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you find the coleslaw needs a little more sweetness, don’t hesitate to add more honey! Start with a teaspoon or two and taste as you go. On the flip side, if it’s too sweet for your liking, a splash of apple cider vinegar can help balance it out. It’s all about finding that perfect harmony that suits your taste buds!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
This cranberry apple coleslaw is such a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal! Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve alongside it:
- Grilled Chicken: The bright flavors of the coleslaw complement the smoky, savory taste of grilled chicken perfectly. Just imagine taking a bite of juicy chicken followed by a refreshing crunch!
- BBQ Ribs: If you’re firing up the grill, serve this coleslaw with some tender, tangy BBQ ribs. The sweetness of the apples and cranberries cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
- Fish Tacos: For a lighter option, try pairing it with fish tacos! The crisp coleslaw adds a fantastic crunch and balances the flavors of the fish and any spicy sauces.
- Sandwiches: Whether it’s a classic pulled pork sandwich or a veggie wrap, a side of cranberry apple coleslaw adds a refreshing twist and a pop of color to your plate.
- Picnic Favorites: This coleslaw is a star at picnics! Serve it alongside fried chicken, potato salad, or any of your favorite picnic foods for a delightful spread.
- As a Salad Base: You can even use it as a base for a more substantial salad! Toss in some sliced grilled steak or roasted chickpeas for added protein and enjoy it as a meal on its own.
With these serving suggestions, your cranberry apple coleslaw will shine as a delicious and refreshing side that everyone will love. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
best coleslaw recipe
uses for extra cabbage
cranberry orange scones
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry apple coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that combines crunchy cabbage with sweet apples and tart cranberries.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large apple, diced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage.
- Add the diced apple and chopped cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss well to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for extra flavor.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: cranberry apple coleslaw, coleslaw recipe, salad recipe
