This Crunchy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a fresh twist on the classic dish! It combines crispy cabbage, sweet apples, and tart cranberries for a fun and tasty side.
I love how this slaw adds a pop of color to any meal. It’s perfect for potlucks or just to enjoy with dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just chop and toss! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coleslaw Mix: The mix of shredded cabbage and carrots gives a great crunch. If you can’t find it pre-packaged, you can shred your own green and purple cabbage and add some grated carrots. This way, you can control the freshness!
Apple: I recommend using crisp apples like Gala or Fuji for sweetness and crunch. If they’re not available, you could substitute with Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a nice balance.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and chewiness. If you want a twist, you could swap them for raisins or chopped dried cherries, which would add a different flavor profile.
Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor! If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds are great alternatives that still add crunch.
Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base for the dressing. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well. For a vegan option, use a plant-based mayo.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Coleslaw?
To achieve the best crunch, the way you prepare your cabbage and apples is essential. Make sure to chop or shred them fresh and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to mix.
- When mixing, fold the dressing into the veggies gently. This keeps them crisp!
- Don’t dress the slaw until you’re ready to serve. Letting it sit too long can make it soggy. Refrigerate the separate components if making in advance, and combine just before serving.
This way, your coleslaw will stay fresh, crunchy, and vibrant on the plate!
Crunchy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and purple cabbage, and shredded carrots)
- 1 large apple, cored and diced (choose a crisp variety like Gala or Fuji)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
- 3 green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before the coleslaw is ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Mix them together gently so they are evenly distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is smooth and creamy. This dressing gives the coleslaw its delicious flavor!
3. Combine with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture. Using a spatula or tongs, toss everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
4. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together and helps the slaw stay crisp.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. Enjoy this crunchy, sweet, and tangy side dish with your favorite meals!
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw mix and dressing separately a day in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the veggies crisp and fresh!
What Other Crunchy Ingredients Can I Add?
For extra crunch, consider adding sliced bell peppers, chopped celery, or even shredded carrots. These will enhance the texture and add more flavor to the coleslaw!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in This Recipe?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based mayonnaise—it’ll still give you that creamy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
