If you’re looking to brighten up your meal with a refreshing crunch and a burst of sweet-tart flavor, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the crispness of fresh apples with the chewy sweetness of dried cranberries, along with the classic crunch of coleslaw mix and walnuts, this salad is a colorful celebration of textures and tastes. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it a perfect side dish for everything from picnic lunches to festive holiday dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe has a distinct role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together in perfect harmony. Fresh and vibrant, these components make assembling your coleslaw both simple and satisfying.
- 14 ounce bag 3-color coleslaw mix: A vibrant blend of shredded cabbage and carrots that forms the crunchy, colorful base of the salad.
- 1 large apple, chopped: Adds a juicy, crisp sweetness with every bite—choose a firm variety like Gala or Fuji for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These chewy gems bring a lovely tart contrast that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts: Toasted or raw, walnuts provide a nutty crunch that gives the slaw a wonderful depth.
- 4 green onions, sliced: Infuses a mild oniony freshness without overpowering the flavors.
- 3/4 cup mayo: The creamy backbone of the dressing, making the slaw rich and luscious.
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream: Adds tang and lightness; feel free to pick yogurt for a healthier twist.
- 1/4 cup honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally, complementing the fruit and balancing the tartness.
- 3/4 teaspoon dried ground ginger: Provides a subtle, warm spice kick to enliven every mouthful.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Start by chopping the large apple into bite-sized pieces—keeping the skin on adds extra color and nutrition. Slice the green onions thinly for a mild crunch without sharpness. Gather the coleslaw mix into a large mixing bowl to make room for all the wonderful additions.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and dried ground ginger. This dressing is creamy yet light, with just the right hint of sweetness and spice to make the slaw sing.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the chopped apples, dried cranberries, walnuts, and sliced green onions to the coleslaw mix. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to bruise the apples or crush the walnuts; you want everything evenly coated but still full of texture.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Allow the coleslaw to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating the perfect balance of sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy in every forkful.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful final touch, sprinkle extra walnuts or cranberries on top just before serving. A few fresh apple slices or a light dusting of ground ginger can also elevate the presentation and hint at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe pairs spectacularly well with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a hearty pulled pork sandwich. Its fresh, tangy crispness offers a fantastic contrast, cutting through rich, smoky flavors and adding a delightful fruity note.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your coleslaw in individual mason jars for a charming picnic vibe, or pile it high on a platter adorned with colorful apple slices and sprigs of parsley. It also works wonderfully as a topping for tacos or as a refreshing bed under seared meats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover coleslaw in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It remains fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it an easy addition to your next day’s meal or a quick snack.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe because the fresh ingredients and creamy dressing can separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture negatively.
Reheating
Since this coleslaw is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, give it a gentle stir and maybe a splash of fresh yogurt or mayo if it seems a bit dry after storage.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are much tarter and less sweet than dried ones, so if you choose to use them, consider adding a bit more honey to balance the flavors. Also, chop them finely to distribute their taste well throughout the slaw.
What type of apple works best in this recipe?
Firm apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala hold their crunch nicely and provide a natural sweetness that complements the tart cranberries without turning mushy.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe?
Yes! Substitute the mayo with a vegan mayo and use a dairy-free yogurt such as coconut or almond yogurt. The flavor will still be creamy and delicious but suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I make this coleslaw in advance for a party?
Absolutely! Making the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe a few hours or even a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a gentle toss before serving to freshen it up.
How can I add a little extra zing to the dressing?
A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dressing, adding a zesty kick that complements the sweetness beautifully without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe isn’t just a side dish; it’s a delightful celebration of autumn flavors all year round. It’s simple enough for a last-minute dinner but special enough to impress guests, combining freshness, sweetness, and crunch in every forkful. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!
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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw combining crisp coleslaw mix with sweet apples, tart dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy honey-ginger dressing. Perfect as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 14 ounce bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3/4 teaspoon dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Prepare the salad mix: In a large bowl, combine the 3-color coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions, tossing gently to mix evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt or sour cream, honey, and dried ground ginger until smooth and well combined.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving chilled. Give a final toss before plating.
Notes
- For a tangier dressing, substitute sour cream for plain yogurt.
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart crunch or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.
- To make it vegan, substitute mayonnaise and yogurt with vegan alternatives and omit honey or use maple syrup.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- Can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
