Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a vibrant twist on a classic side dish, combining crisp coleslaw mix with sweet apples and tart cranberries. It’s perfect for adding color and flavor to any meal, especially during the fall season when apples and cranberries are in abundance.
Ingredients
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
- ¾ cup mayo
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions.
- Step 2: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayo, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and ground ginger until the dressing is smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Step 4: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of mayo and yogurt in the dressing according to your preference.
- Step 5: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor and crunch.
- Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for extra tanginess.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a thicker and tangier dressing.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based mayo and yogurt alternatives.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed within this time for optimal freshness and crunch. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and add extra dressing if needed, as the cabbage can absorb moisture during storage.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a few hours ahead. Refrigerate it covered and toss before serving. Keep in mind the salad may become softer over time.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are ideal as they are sweet, crisp, and hold their texture well, adding a refreshing crunch to the coleslaw.
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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a vibrant and fresh salad combining crisp 3-color coleslaw mix with sweet chopped apples, tart dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and sliced green onions. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayo, yogurt or sour cream, honey, and ground ginger, this dish provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal as a refreshing side or a light snack, it can be served immediately or chilled to meld the flavors.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the 3-color coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
- Prepare dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, plain yogurt or sour cream, honey, and dried ground ginger until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Adjust for lighter dressing: If desired, reduce the amounts of mayonnaise and yogurt to create a lighter version of the dressing to suit your preference.
- Chill and serve: Serve the coleslaw immediately for a fresher crunch or refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes allowing the flavors to meld and deepen for a more harmonious taste.
Notes
- Choose crisp apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and sweetness.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute yogurt or sour cream with a vegan alternative and use vegan mayo.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor integration but serving it fresh preserves maximum crunch.
- Walnuts can be toasted briefly to add an extra nutty flavor if preferred.
- Adjust honey amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cranberry coleslaw, coleslaw, cranberry salad, apple salad, walnut coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, easy salad recipe
