Oh, hey there! I’m so excited to share one of my favorite salads with you today: Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! This delightful dish holds a special place in my heart because it has the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and it always reminds me of summer barbecues with family and friends. Just picture it: warm sun, fresh air, and a big bowl of this colorful coleslaw waiting to be devoured. Seriously, it’s like a party in your mouth!
What makes this coleslaw truly unique is how it transforms the classic slaw into something a bit more exciting with the addition of crunchy apples and chewy cranberries. Whether you’re serving it up with grilled chicken or just bringing it along to your next picnic, this coleslaw is going to steal the show. Let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?
Green Cabbage: The base of our coleslaw, this is where the crunch begins! I love using finely shredded cabbage because it gives a lovely texture and absorbs the dressing beautifully.
Red Cabbage: Not only does it add a pop of color, but it’s also packed with antioxidants. Plus, who doesn’t love how vibrant it makes the salad?
Carrots: A classic coleslaw ingredient, grated carrots provide a bit of sweetness and color. Make sure they’re finely grated to blend seamlessly into the mix.
Apple: Sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best here. They provide that crisp bite and hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.
Dried Cranberries: These little gems add a chewy texture and a burst of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apple.
Celery: Diced celery gives an added crunch and a fresh flavor that brings everything together.
Green Onions: For a little zing and a lovely mild onion flavor, sliced green onions are a must.
Walnuts: Optional, but if you’re craving that extra crunch, chopped walnuts are a fantastic addition. They also add a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids!
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our dressing. I usually go for a classic mayo, but feel free to use a lighter version if you’re looking to cut back on calories.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of tanginess that brightens up the whole dish. What’s not to love about apple cider vinegar?
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the flavors. I often switch it up depending on what I have on hand!
Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings that allow all the flavors to shine through without overpowering them.
Is Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Good for You?
Absolutely! Not only is this coleslaw delicious, but it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients.
Cabbage: Loaded with vitamins K and C, cabbage is a great source of fiber. Plus, it’s low in calories, so you can indulge without the guilt!
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are wonderful for your eyes and skin.
Apples: They’re not just for pies! Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, and they contribute to heart health.
Cranberries: These little fruits are antioxidants powerhouses! Plus, they’ve been known to promote urinary tract health.
The dressing can be a bit rich due to the mayonnaise, but you can always substitute some or all of it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. And adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking; that’s the beauty of homemade recipes!
Ingredients List
– 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
– 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
– 1 cup carrots, grated
– 1 apple, diced (preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: About 6-8 people (depending on your crowd!)
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?
1. Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrots, diced apple, dried cranberries, diced celery, and sliced green onions. Just looking at this colorful medley puts a smile on my face!
2. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, toss in the chopped walnuts for that delightful crunch.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Slather that delicious dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Ensure that each ingredient gets that luscious coating!
5. Stick the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic truly happens as the flavors meld together.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish and watch how quickly it disappears!
Summer Picnic Perfection!
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is not just any ordinary side, my friend! It’s perfect for picnics, barbeques, or even as a light lunch. If you want to mix it up, try adding some shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed version or swap out the apple for pears when they’re in season.
Before I wrap this up, I just have to say: you’ve got to try this recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’d love to hear about your experience making it. Share your photos, thoughts, or any tweaks you made—it’s always fun to see how different cooks put their spin on a great dish! Happy cooking!
