The Cranberry Apple Coleslaw brings together the perfect balance of sweetness from the apple and cranberries with the crunchiness of fresh cabbage and carrots. The creamy dressing binds it all together in a refreshing and tangy dish that is ideal for any occasion.
Whether served at a summer BBQ or as a holiday side dish, this coleslaw adds a festive touch with its beautiful colors and delightful textures. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy gatherings.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 small red cabbage, shredded
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1 large carrot, shredded
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1 apple, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon honey
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, thinly sliced apple, and chopped cranberries.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Appeal of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
What sets Cranberry Apple Coleslaw apart from the typical coleslaw is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp cabbage provides the familiar crunch, while the carrots add an extra layer of color and texture. The apples bring a natural sweetness to the dish, making it stand out from the more savory coleslaws. The fresh cranberries not only provide a tart contrast but also infuse the dish with vibrant color, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
In terms of flavor, the tangy, creamy dressing acts as a perfect complement to the natural sweetness of the fruit, while the subtle crunch of the cabbage and carrots creates a satisfying mouthfeel. The combination of apple cider vinegar and honey in the dressing provides the right balance of acidity and sweetness, making it a perfectly seasoned side dish that can pair well with a variety of main courses.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best aspects of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is its versatility. It is a fantastic addition to a wide range of meals, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes. It’s the kind of side dish that complements summer barbecues and picnics, and it’s just as fitting on a holiday table, adding a pop of color to your festive spread. This coleslaw pairs beautifully with everything from roasted turkey to grilled chicken, and it’s also perfect for a vegan or vegetarian feast. It’s the kind of dish that can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to its light and refreshing nature, which never feels too heavy, even after a big meal.
Furthermore, its simplicity in preparation makes it a convenient choice when you’re looking for something quick and easy to serve a crowd. Unlike many traditional side dishes that require hours of cooking, this coleslaw comes together in under 30 minutes, and the best part is that you can prepare it in advance, leaving you with more time to focus on the main dishes or enjoy time with your guests.
Health Benefits of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Not only is Cranberry Apple Coleslaw delicious, but it’s also a healthy choice. The ingredients used in this recipe are packed with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that contribute to a well-rounded diet.
The cabbage in this dish is a fantastic source of fiber and vitamin C. Fiber aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, while vitamin C boosts the immune system and promotes skin health. Carrots are another great source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health and has anti-inflammatory properties. The fresh cranberries add their own impressive health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and fiber. They’re also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent addition to any diet.
The apples in this coleslaw are not only naturally sweet but also provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, the honey in the dressing, when used in moderation, offers a natural source of sweetness that is far less processed than refined sugars.
Making Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Vegan and Dairy-Free
If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative, this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw can be easily modified. By swapping the mayonnaise for a vegan-friendly option, such as a dairy-free mayo or cashew cream, you can enjoy this dish without any animal-based ingredients. In fact, this recipe is inherently adaptable for those with different dietary restrictions. You can switch out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make it entirely plant-based while still keeping that touch of sweetness.
This makes Cranberry Apple Coleslaw an excellent option for gatherings where guests may have specific dietary needs or preferences, as it’s both delicious and inclusive of many common restrictions like dairy and gluten.
How to Customize Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
One of the great things about Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is its flexibility. While the basic recipe is wonderful on its own, it can be easily adapted to suit your personal tastes. Here are a few ideas to make this dish even more unique:
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Add nuts or seeds: For a bit of crunch and added nutrition, consider adding some chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds. These will enhance the flavor and texture of the slaw.
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Include dried fruits: If fresh cranberries are not available or you prefer a sweeter version, substitute them with dried cranberries or raisins. These dried fruits can add an extra layer of sweetness, especially when paired with the tartness of the apples.
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Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat in your coleslaw, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick. This twist is especially great if you’re serving the coleslaw with spicy BBQ or grilled dishes.
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Herbs and citrus: Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint to give the coleslaw an extra burst of freshness. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can also elevate the flavors and add some zesty notes to the dressing.
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Make it creamy or tangy: Adjust the ratio of mayo and apple cider vinegar to make the slaw creamier or tangier, depending on your personal preference. More mayo will create a richer, smoother coleslaw, while a bit more vinegar will increase the tanginess, making the salad more refreshing.
Storage Tips for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, it benefits from being refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together and intensify. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. However, be aware that the cabbage will continue to soften the longer it sits, so it’s best to eat it within a couple of days for the best texture.
You can also store the dressing separately and toss it with the slaw just before serving if you prefer to keep the cabbage crisp and fresh. This way, you can enjoy the coleslaw over a few days without worrying about it becoming too soggy.
Conclusion
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is the perfect side dish to brighten up any meal. Its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and balanced flavors make it a great addition to a wide variety of meals, from casual summer BBQs to more formal holiday feasts. With its health benefits and ability to be easily customized to suit various dietary preferences, this recipe is one that everyone can enjoy.
Whether you make it as a quick and simple side dish for dinner or as a contribution to a larger gathering, Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re looking for something fresh and new to serve, give this recipe a try – you won’t regret it!