This Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a colorful mix of crunchy cabbage, tart cranberries, and sweet apples. It’s refreshing and perfect for any gathering!
I love how this slaw adds a pop of flavor to any meal. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, leaving me more time to enjoy time with friends. Who wouldn’t want that? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: I typically use a mix of green and red cabbage for color and crunch. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a great shortcut too!
Apples: Granny Smith adds tartness, while Fuji brings sweetness. If either is unavailable, feel free to choose your favorite apple varieties!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a nice tang. Dried cranberries can be a sweet substitute, just reduce the honey if you go that route.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. It keeps the creaminess while changing the flavor slightly for the better!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Adjust this to taste, and if you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup for sweetness!
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Stays Crunchy?
Keeping coleslaw crunchy is all about the prep and timing. You want to ensure the veggies stay crisp while absorbing those flavors. Here are a few tips:
- Shred the cabbage right before mixing it with the dressing. The longer it sits, the softer it gets.
- When mixing, only dress what you plan to serve immediately. Keep any leftovers undressed until you’re ready.
- Chill your coleslaw. Refrigerating it allows flavors to marry without getting soggy.
Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 medium apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and julienned
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, halved or roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing coleslaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, it’s a good idea to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let all those delicious flavors come together. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned apple, halved fresh cranberries, and thinly sliced green onions. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This adds a delicious tanginess to the slaw!
3. Combine:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated evenly in the dressing. If you like, fold in the chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color.
4. Chill It Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, making every bite scrumptious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick toss, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish to complement your favorite meals. Enjoy your delightful Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw!
FAQ for Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged coleslaw mix can save time and still deliver great flavor. Just make sure it includes both green and red cabbage, and follow the same dressing instructions for a quick and easy meal prep!
How Long Can I Store the Coleslaw?
You can store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that it may become slightly more soggy as it sits, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cranberries?
No problem! If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can substitute with dried cranberries. Just reduce the sweetness from the honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this coleslaw vegan by swapping out the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or even using Greek yogurt made from plant-based sources. Replace honey with maple syrup for an entirely plant-based dish!
