Tangy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe for a Refreshing Twist

Catch a whiff of this tangy, crunchy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw that will have your taste buds dancing like nobody’s watching. Imagine crisp cabbage mingling with juicy apples and tart cranberries, all drizzled in a zesty dressing that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a sunny day. You might just find yourself sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl, pretending you’re just sampling – but we all know that’s code for “I’m about to demolish this entire batch.”

Now, let’s get personal for a moment. I remember the first time I served this delightful coleslaw at our family picnic. My Aunt Edna had brought her infamous potato salad, which is basically legendary in our family. As I nervously introduced my creation, I half-expected the coleslaw to be overshadowed by Aunt Edna’s culinary prowess. But lo and behold! The moment everyone took a bite, they were hooked! This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw became the star of the show, proving that sometimes, it’s the underdog that steals the spotlight. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just as an everyday side dish, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that’ll leave everyone asking for more!

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Cabbage: Use about half a medium head of green cabbage; it adds that perfect crunch and freshness.

• Red Cabbage: A small head will do; red cabbage brings stunning color and additional nutrients.

• Carrots: Two large carrots, grated for sweetness and extra texture; choose firm carrots for best results.

• Apples: Two crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp; their tartness balances perfectly with the other flavors.

• Dried Cranberries: About a cup of dried cranberries; they add chewiness and bursts of sweetness.

• Sunflower Seeds: One cup for crunch; they add healthy fats and protein while enhancing texture.

For the Dressing:

• Vegan Mayonnaise: Use one cup; creamy without the eggs—perfect for binding everything together.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: A quarter cup for tanginess; it brightens up all those delectable flavors.

• Maple Syrup: Two tablespoons add natural sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference.

• Salt & Pepper: To taste; these simple seasonings elevate all those fresh ingredients beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Chop Your Veggies

Start by chopping half a medium head of green cabbage and half a small head of red cabbage into thin strips. Grate two large carrots until they’re as fine as your patience allows. Combine these colorful vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Some Crunch

Next, grab those two crisp apples! Core them (make sure no seeds sneak in), then slice them into thin matchsticks or small cubes—whatever suits your fancy! Toss them right into the bowl with your chopped veggies.

Step 3: Sweeten It Up

Now let’s bring some sweetness into play! Toss in about a cup of dried cranberries along with one cup of sunflower seeds. These little gems will add delightful bursts of flavor and satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Whip Up That Dressing

In another bowl, combine one cup of vegan mayonnaise with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar and two tablespoons of maple syrup. Whisk until smooth—this dressing is like magic in liquid form!

Step 5: Dress It Up

Pour that glorious dressing over your veggie mixture and toss everything together until it’s well coated. Feel free to channel your inner salad ninja here!

Step 6: Chill & Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving—this lets those flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion. When you’re ready to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, serve it up alongside grilled chicken or turkey burgers.

Transfer to plates and enjoy this refreshing Apple Cranberry Coleslaw that’s sure to become everyone’s new favorite side dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots while you chop the apples and measure out the cranberries. Mix the dressing separately to ensure even coating before combining all ingredients. This sequence keeps everything fresh and crunchy, maximizing flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the apples for your favorite fruits like pears or add nuts such as walnuts for extra crunch. Experiment with different dressings like tahini or a zesty vinaigrette to make this coleslaw uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best served chilled. Just give it a good shake before enjoying those flavors again!

I remember making this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw for a family picnic last summer. My cousin took one bite and declared it “the best slaw ever,” which led to an impromptu taste test against Grandma’s famous recipe!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw features fresh green cabbage, sweet apples, and tart cranberries as its primary ingredients. To enhance the flavor, you can add shredded carrots and chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. The dressing typically includes a mixture of apple cider vinegar, honey, and a plant-based mayonnaise to create a creamy yet tangy blend. This simple combination makes for a colorful and refreshing side dish that pairs well with various meals.

How can I customize my Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?

You can easily customize Apple Cranberry Coleslaw by adding different fruits or nuts based on your preferences. Consider including raisins, sliced grapes, or even citrus segments for extra flavor. For added crunch, try incorporating sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey in your dressing or experimenting with different types of apples to achieve your desired taste.

Can I make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, preparing Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ahead of time is possible and often recommended for enhanced flavors. You can prepare the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, to maintain the crispness of the cabbage and apples, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving. This way, your coleslaw remains fresh and crunchy when it’s time to enjoy.

Is Apple Cranberry Coleslaw suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is perfect for meal prep due to its versatility and freshness. You can batch-make this recipe and divide it into individual servings for easy lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess. This nutritious side dish adds color and flavor to any meal while being quick and easy to prepare.

Conclusion for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw:

In summary, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that offers both taste and nutrition. With its vibrant colors and crunchy textures, this dish serves as an excellent side for various meals. Customizing it with additional fruits or nuts enhances its appeal even further. Making it ahead of time allows for convenient meal planning without sacrificing freshness. Enjoy this refreshing coleslaw at your next gathering or as part of a healthy meal!

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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 8

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Description

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a vibrant and tangy side dish that perfectly balances crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and tart cranberries in a creamy dressing. This refreshing coleslaw is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a colorful addition to any meal. With its delightful textures and flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups red cabbage, shredded
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrots, diced apples, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
2. In another bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg