Sweet Tangy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Introduction

This Sweet Tangy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on a classic side dish. With crisp cabbage, crisp apples, and tart cranberries tossed in a creamy, lightly sweet dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any meal that could use a bright, flavorful crunch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, apple slices, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and sliced almonds if using.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
5. Step 5: Serve cold as a flavorful side dish or a light meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden before adding them to the coleslaw.
• Try substituting Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing while keeping creaminess.
• Swap dried cranberries with dried cherries or fresh pomegranate seeds for a different burst of tartness.

Storage

Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cabbage can become soggy over time. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle toss and add a splash of vinegar or a little extra honey if the flavor seems muted.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this coleslaw a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Waiting at least 30 minutes after tossing allows the flavors to develop, but for best texture, avoid making it more than a day ahead.

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works well and adds a vibrant color contrast. You can also mix green and red cabbage for extra visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Sweet Tangy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

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4.7 from 72 reviews

This Sweet Tangy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing, crisp side dish that combines the crunch of shredded cabbage with the sweetness of apples and dried cranberries. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, this coleslaw offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal accompaniment, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead for convenience.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Vegetables and Fruits

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Nuts

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine the Veggies and Fruits: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, thinly sliced apple, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and sliced almonds if you are using them. This creates the colorful base of the coleslaw.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined, balancing sweetness and tang.
3. Toss the Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and fruit mixture. Toss thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing for a consistent flavor in every bite.
4. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This rest time allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill, making it refreshing and crisp when served.
5. Serve: Serve the coleslaw cold as a side dish or a light meal accompaniment to enhance your main course with a sweet and tangy crunch.

Notes

• Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant to add extra crunch and flavor.
• Use a tart apple variety, like Granny Smith, to add brightness and balance the sweetness of honey and cranberries.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Make the coleslaw up to a day ahead to allow flavors to develop even more.

Keywords: apple cranberry coleslaw, sweet tangy coleslaw, cabbage salad, no-cook coleslaw, holiday side dish, healthy coleslaw