Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries and Almonds

Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries and Almonds Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant side dish that packs a crunch, look no further than this Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries and Almonds. This delightful salad combines the crispness of apples and cabbage with sweet cranberries and the satisfying crunch of almonds. It’s an easy recipe perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply a bright addition to your dinner table. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Whip it up in under 15 minutes – perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Crispy & Refreshing: The combination of apples and cabbage gives a great crunch, while the cranberries add a burst of sweetness.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber and vitamins, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for packed lunches.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy!

Ingredients

• Green cabbage: A classic base for coleslaw; you can use Napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
• Apples: Use your favorite variety, like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
• Dried cranberries: These add a sweet-tart flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Sliced almonds: For crunch and a nutty flavor; you can substitute with sunflower seeds if nut-free.
• Mayonnaise: For creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick; white vinegar is a good substitute.
• Honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the tang; adjust to your taste.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Start by finely shredding the green cabbage. If you have a mandoline, it’s perfect for this job!
2. Chop the Apples: Core and julienne the apples. Leaving the skin on adds extra color and nutrients.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded cabbage, apples, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Pour the dressing over the top.
5. Toss to Coat: Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined. Make sure everything is nicely coated in the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve: Let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve cold for the best crunch!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Food Processor: If you have one, it can speed up shredding the cabbage and slicing the apples.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the dressing by adding more vinegar or honey to find your perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
• Make It Ahead: This coleslaw gets better after sitting for a bit, as the flavors mingle.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding in shredded carrots, chopped celery, or even some fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• Keep It Crisp: To maintain the crunch, try not to dress it too early before serving.

How to Serve

This Apple Coleslaw is excellent as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it on top of a pulled pork sandwich for a delightful crunch. It’s versatile enough to accompany your favorite barbeque, taco night, or even as a topping for burgers.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Fridge Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days, but the crunchiness may diminish over time.
• Freezing: While freezing is possible, the texture of cabbage won’t hold up well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
• Reheating Tips: There’s no need to reheat this salad – it’s best served cold!

FAQs

Can I use different fruits in this coleslaw?
Absolutely! Pears, grapes, or sliced oranges would be wonderful additions or substitutes.

Is this coleslaw vegan-friendly?
You can easily make it vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise and a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

How can I make this salad spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños will give it a nice kick!

What can I do with leftover coleslaw?
Use it as a topping for tacos, mix into grain bowls, or toss it into wraps for added crunch!

Enjoy making this vibrant Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries and Almonds! It’s sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Happy eating!

Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries and Almonds

A fresh and vibrant side dish that combines crisp apples and cabbage with sweet cranberries and crunchy almonds, perfect for picnics and barbecues.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Coleslaw Base

• 4 cups Green cabbage, shredded You can use Napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
• 2 medium Apples, cored and julienned Use your favorite variety, like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
• 1 cup Dried cranberries These add a sweet-tart flavor.
• 1/2 cup Sliced almonds You can substitute with sunflower seeds if nut-free.

Dressing

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
• 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar White vinegar is a good substitute.
• 2 tablespoons Honey or maple syrup Adjust to your taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper Essential for flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Finely shred the green cabbage.
2. Core and julienne the apples, leaving the skin on for extra color and nutrients.

Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, add the shredded cabbage, apples, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
2. Pour the dressing over the top.
3. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.

Chill

1. Let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Serve cold for the best crunch.

Notes

For the best results, use a food processor for shredding and slicing. Adjust the dressing to taste and feel free to customize with additional ingredients like shredded carrots or celery.