Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! This dish is like a breath of fresh air on a warm day—so crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. I first whipped it up for a family picnic, and it was such a hit that now it’s my go-to side for everything from BBQs to holiday dinners. The sweet crunch of apples paired with the tartness of cranberries just sings in your mouth! Seriously, it’s a delightful mix that makes you feel good about eating salad. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delicious coleslaw in your life!
Ingredients List
You’ll want to gather these fresh, vibrant ingredients for the most delightful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw:
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup apples, diced (I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor!)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to your taste!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go—this coleslaw comes together so quickly, you won’t want to waste a moment!
How to Prepare Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Now, let’s dive into making this vibrant Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! First, grab a large bowl and toss together the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, diced apples, and dried cranberries. The colors are just so beautiful; it’s like a rainbow in a bowl!
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This dressing is key—it brings all those ingredients together into a creamy, tangy delight. Pour your dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently toss everything until it’s well-coated. I like to use my hands for this—just make sure they’re clean, of course!
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, the wait is totally worth it! When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick toss again and enjoy the crunch!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- Quick Preparation: This coleslaw comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute side!
- Refreshing Taste: The combo of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a flavor explosion that’s so satisfying.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and fruits, it’s a guilt-free way to add crunch to your meal.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re at a BBQ, picnic, or holiday dinner, this coleslaw fits right in with any spread!
Tips for Success
To make your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw truly shine, here are my top tips! First, adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste—don’t be shy to experiment a little! If you want a nutty crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or pecans; they add a delightful texture. When serving, I love to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or some extra cranberries on top for that pop of color and flair. And don’t forget, this coleslaw gets better as it sits, so if you can, make it a few hours ahead of time or even the night before. Enjoy the flavors melding together!
Variations of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Get creative with your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw by trying out different ingredients! For a delightful crunch, swap in sliced almonds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts—both add a nutty flavor. If you’re feeling fruity, toss in some diced pears or even slices of juicy mandarin oranges for extra sweetness! As for dressings, you can experiment with a yogurt-based dressing for a tangy twist or substitute the mayonnaise with a zesty vinaigrette for a lighter option. The beauty of this coleslaw is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to mix and match to find your perfect combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, but let me tell you, it usually doesn’t last that long in my house! The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Now, I wouldn’t recommend reheating this coleslaw—it’s best served cold and crunchy. Just give it a good toss before serving, and you’re all set to enjoy that refreshing taste again!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the estimated nutritional perks of this delicious Apple Cranberry Coleslaw! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 150 calories, which is fantastic for a side dish. You’re looking at around 8 grams of fat, including just 1 gram of saturated fat, so it’s a pretty heart-friendly option. It packs in 20 grams of carbohydrates, with 3 grams of fiber to help keep you feeling satisfied. Plus, you’ll get 2 grams of protein and only 5 milligrams of cholesterol. Keep in mind, these values can vary a bit depending on the exact ingredients you use, but overall, it’s a guilt-free treat you can feel good about enjoying!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my Apple Cranberry Coleslaw? I’ve got answers! One of the most common questions I get is, “How long does it last in the fridge?” Well, it’s best enjoyed within three days, but it can sit in the fridge for up to five days if properly stored in an airtight container. Another frequent question is about ingredient substitutions. If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic swap—it’s lighter and still creamy! For those following a vegan diet, you can use a plant-based mayo or make a vinaigrette instead.
Lastly, if you’re concerned about allergies, just remember you can easily leave out the nuts or swap for seeds. This coleslaw is super adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!
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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw: 7 Reasons to Love This Delightful Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing mix of apples and cranberries in a crunchy coleslaw.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup apples, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, and cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Apple Cranberry Coleslaw