Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish that brings together the sweetness of apples and the tanginess of cranberries, you’re in for a treat with this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe! This delightful salad is not only colorful but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something simple yet elegant.

What makes this recipe special is its creamy dressing paired with crunchy cabbage and juicy apples. It’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as part of a cozy winter meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, which is always a bonus!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This coleslaw comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a breeze to whip up.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the mix of sweet apples and tart cranberries.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Chill in the fridge for an hour before serving; flavors only get better!
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own as a light lunch.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from fresh produce, this slaw is as good for you as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking fun! For this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe, you’ll need:

• 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)

Variations

The beauty of coleslaw lies in its flexibility! Here are some easy variations to customize your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw:

• Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for added color and texture.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute mayonnaise with your favorite plant-based mayo for a vegan-friendly version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat!
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or add mandarin oranges for a fun twist.

How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for shreds about 1/8 inch thick. This will ensure that every bite is tender yet crunchy. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.

Step 2: Dice the Apples

Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces. The sweetness from the apples will balance nicely with the tart cranberries. Add them to the bowl with the cabbage.

Step 3: Mix in Dried Cranberries

Add the dried cranberries to the bowl. If you’re using nuts, chop them coarsely and toss them in too! They offer an extra layer of crunch that complements the softness of the cabbage and apples.

Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley

Chop the parsley finely and sprinkle it over your mixture. The parsley adds freshness and a pop of color that makes this dish visually appealing.

Step 5: Whisk Together Dressing Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. This creamy dressing ties all your ingredients together beautifully!

Step 6: Season Your Dressing

Add celery seeds, salt, and pepper to your dressing mix. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this step is crucial because it enhances all those lovely flavors.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over your cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with dressing.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before serving. Chilling allows flavors to meld together while keeping everything crisp!

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste your coleslaw and adjust seasoning as needed. Everyone has different tastes—this is your chance to make it perfect!

Step 10: Serve Chilled

Serve chilled as a delicious side dish that complements any meal! Enjoy every crunchy bite filled with sweet-tart goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Creating the perfect cranberry apple coleslaw is simple when you follow these helpful tips!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, crisp cabbage and apples will enhance the flavor and texture of your coleslaw. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also provide more nutrients.

• Customize Your Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, feel free to substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. This way, you can cater to your preferences while still adding a nutritious element.

• Let It Chill: Allowing the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together. The dressing penetrates the cabbage and apples, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, always taste your coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or sweetener can make all the difference in balancing flavors.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for added color and nutrition. This not only enhances visual appeal but also boosts the overall healthiness of your dish.

How to Serve Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Presenting your cranberry apple coleslaw beautifully can elevate any meal! This refreshing dish is versatile enough to be served at casual barbecues or elegant dinner parties.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions provides a hint of sharpness that complements the sweetness of the coleslaw.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch, making your dish look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated grilled chicken skewers offer a savory contrast to the sweet and tangy coleslaw, making them an excellent pairing.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing balance that works well alongside this crunchy side dish.
• Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potato wedges complements the tartness of the coleslaw beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds warmth and texture to your table, making it a great accompaniment to this cool and creamy slaw.

Now that you know how to prepare and serve this delicious cranberry apple coleslaw, it’s time to enjoy this healthy recipe with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not just a delicious side dish; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying this coleslaw later.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover coleslaw to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

• While this coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed.
• Place the coleslaw in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

• This recipe is meant to be served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat!
• If you prefer, bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Cranberry Apple Coleslaw that might help you enjoy this recipe even more!

Can I use other fruits in my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or grapes. They will add their own unique flavor and sweetness.

How long does Cranberry Apple Coleslaw last in the fridge?

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before serving!

Is there a way to make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw healthier?

You can reduce the mayonnaise or use a Greek yogurt alternative for a lighter dressing. Additionally, adding more veggies like carrots or bell peppers can boost its nutritional value!

Can I make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the nuts if you have allergies or if you prefer a nut-free version. The coleslaw will still taste fantastic without them.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe as much as I do! It’s vibrant, crunchy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal side dish for any gathering or meal. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or serving it fresh, I’m sure it will be a hit on your table! Happy cooking!