Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic side dish. Combining sweet apples and tart cranberries with a creamy ginger-spiced dressing, it’s perfect for holidays or casual meals alike.
Ingredients
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
- ¾ cup mayo
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix the coleslaw, chopped apple, dried cranberries, walnuts, and sliced green onions.
- Step 2: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayo, yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss to combine evenly.
- Step 4: Adjust the dressing for a lighter version by reducing the mayo and yogurt if desired.
- Step 5: Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and sweetness.
- For extra crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
- Swap dried cranberries with fresh pomegranate seeds for a juicy burst.
- To make it vegan, replace mayo and yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best enjoyed within a day for optimal crunch. If refrigerated, the dressing may thicken—let it sit at room temperature briefly and toss before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld. However, for maximum crunch, add apples and walnuts just before serving if possible.
What can I substitute for dried cranberries?
Fresh pomegranate seeds or raisins work well as a tart or sweet substitute. You can also try dried cherries for a different fruity note.
PrintApple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Apple Cranberry Coleslaw that combines the crunch of coleslaw mix with sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all dressed in a creamy honey-ginger dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a light, flavorful snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Mix
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the 3-color coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions to create the base of your coleslaw.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt or sour cream, honey, and dried ground ginger until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust for Lighter Version: For a lighter version of the dressing, reduce the amounts of mayonnaise and yogurt, mixing to taste until you reach your desired creaminess and flavor balance.
- Chill and Serve: Either serve the coleslaw immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use a crunchy apple variety such as Honeycrisp or Fuji for added texture and sweetness.
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream to increase protein and reduce fat content.
- Adjust honey quantity based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly to enhance their flavor before adding.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Keywords: apple cranberry coleslaw, coleslaw recipe, cranberry salad, apple salad, easy salad, vegetarian side dish
