Print

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe

4.6 from 88 reviews

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that combines the crispness of shredded green cabbage with the sweetness of apples and dried cranberries. Enhanced by a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, this salad is perfect for adding a vibrant touch to any meal. The addition of nuts and fresh parsley adds texture and freshness, making it a delightful and easy-to-make coleslaw ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 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
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Nuts & Seeds

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon celery seeds

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage: Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline to shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add Apples: Core and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces, then add them to the bowl with the cabbage.
  3. Incorporate Cranberries and Nuts: Add the dried cranberries to the bowl. If using nuts, chop them coarsely and add to the mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
  4. Add Fresh Parsley: Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the bowl to bring a fresh, herby note.
  5. Make the Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  6. Season the Dressing: Add celery seeds, salt, and black pepper to the dressing and whisk thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
  7. Combine Dressing with Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage, apple, cranberry, and nut mixture in the large bowl.
  8. Toss the Salad: Gently toss all ingredients until they are evenly coated with the creamy dressing, ensuring a balanced flavor in every bite.
  9. Chill the Coleslaw: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, ideally an hour, to allow flavors to meld together.
  10. Final Taste Adjustment and Serving: Before serving, taste the coleslaw and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled as a refreshing and tasty side dish.

Notes

  • This coleslaw can be prepared a day ahead, which helps enhance the flavors even more.
  • For a vegan alternative, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and honey with maple syrup.
  • To add extra crunch and nutrition, feel free to include other nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds.
  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity levels in the dressing according to personal taste.
  • Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light salad on its own.

Keywords: Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, Coleslaw recipe, apple coleslaw, cranberry salad, side dish, fresh coleslaw, healthy coleslaw, vegetarian coleslaw