This Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a crisp and colorful salad that’s perfect for any meal. It combines crunchy cabbage, tart apples, and sweet cranberries for a tasty treat!
Trust me, the mix of sweet and tart in this coleslaw is a hit! I love making it as a side for holiday dinners or just a casual snack. Super easy to whip up, and it adds a pop of color to any plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coleslaw Mix: This mix usually contains shredded cabbage and carrots. You can make your own by shredding green and purple cabbage with a grater if you prefer. It gives you a fresh base with a crunchy texture!
Apple: Crisp apples like Fuji or Gala work best, but you can also use Granny Smith for more tartness. If apples aren’t available, pears can be a sweet substitute.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and color to the coleslaw. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, try using unsweetened dried cherries or raisins instead.
Walnuts: I love the crunch they add, but feel free to replace them with pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. You can also omit them entirely if you prefer a simpler salad.
Mayonnaise: Traditional for dressing, but Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a lighter option. You can also mix half mayo and half Greek yogurt for a balance of creaminess and health!
How Do I Get the Dressing Just Right?
Making the dressing is simple, but getting the right flavor is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the mayonnaise in a small bowl. This is the base of your dressing.
- Add apple cider vinegar for tanginess. The vinegar helps balance the sweetness from the fruits.
- Incorporate honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Feel free to adjust this based on how sweet you like your dressing.
- Whisk together until smooth. The consistency should be creamy but not too thick to coat the salad easily.
Taste the dressing before adding it to the coleslaw. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect flavor!
Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1 large apple, diced (preferably a crisp variety like Fuji or Gala)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, in total, you should budget around 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing will add creaminess and a hint of sweetness to your salad!
3. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat all the components evenly with the dressing. You want everything to be covered well!
4. Season It Up:
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Toss the salad one more time to mix in the seasoning evenly.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Final Touch and Serve:
Once chilled, stir the coleslaw one last time before serving. It’s now ready to enjoy! Serve this vibrant, crunchy, and refreshing coleslaw as a delightful side dish or a light main course!
FAQ for Fresh Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried Cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart and not typically used in this type of coleslaw. If you want to use them, consider sautéing or cooking them down with a bit of sugar to sweeten them up before adding them to your salad. Dried cranberries provide the right balance of sweetness.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the cabbage may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh within the first day or two!
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw and dressing in advance and combine them a few hours before serving. Just be sure to keep the mixture refrigerated. The flavors will meld beautifully, but for optimal crunch, it’s best to avoid letting it sit for too long.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It will still give you that creamy texture while adding a healthy boost! Alternatively, you could try a vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based option.
