Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten up your table with a vibrant and flavorful salad, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet-tart cranberries, and crisp apples all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing that feels both refreshing and comforting. Every bite offers a perfect balance of texture and taste, making it the ideal side to complement anything from a casual sandwich to a festive holiday feast. Trust me, once you make this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw just right means using simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role. From the crunchy cabbages to the juicy apples and the sweet bursts of cranberries, every component adds texture, color, or flavor to make this coleslaw sing.

• Shredded green cabbage: Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch and a mild, slightly peppery base flavor.
• Shredded red cabbage: Adds a vibrant color contrast and a bit more bite for texture variety.
• Large apple (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady): Offers a juicy, tart-sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with the cabbage.
• Dried cranberries: Bring in bright, chewy bursts of tartness that balance the creaminess of the dressing.
• Shredded carrots: Enhance the coleslaw with natural sweetness and a pop of orange color.
• Thinly sliced green onions: Give a subtle sharpness and fresh oniony aroma without overpowering the salad.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Add a toasty crunch and nutty depth that elevates the overall texture.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the creamy, tangy base for the dressing, making it lighter and healthier.
• Mayonnaise (optional): Introduces extra creaminess and richness to the dressing.
• Honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally, balancing the acidity and tartness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a sharp, fruity tang that brightens the overall flavor.
• Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle kick and depth to round out the dressing.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the other flavors harmoniously.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise if you’re using it, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a bowl. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined because this dressing is what ties all the fresh ingredients together with its creamy, tangy punch.

Step 2: Assemble the Slaw

In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded green and red cabbage, julienned apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. If you love nuts, go ahead and add the chopped pecans or walnuts now for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the creamy dressing over the vibrant mix of fruits and vegetables, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. You want each strand of cabbage and each apple piece to be lovingly coated, ensuring every bite bursts with the delicious dressing flavor.

Step 4: Chill and Marinate

Pop your coleslaw into the refrigerator for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This resting time lets all those wonderful flavors meld together and gives the crunchy elements a chance to soak in a bit of the dressing while staying fresh and crisp.

Step 5: Ready to Serve

Once chilled, your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is ready to make any meal pop with freshness, sweetness, and tang. Serve it cold for the best experience, and watch it become the star side dish at your table.

How to Serve Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few extra chopped nuts on top. Adding a few whole dried cranberries gives a lovely jewel-like appearance that’s sure to impress. Freshly cracked black pepper right before serving also adds a subtle spice note that complements the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roast turkey, and pulled pork sandwiches. It also makes a bright and refreshing companion to classic barbecue dishes or can be served as a vibrant side for holiday spreads and outdoor picnics, bringing a welcome balance to richer, heavier plates.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your coleslaw in mini mason jars for a charming, individual presentation at parties. Or layer it atop a fresh green salad as a crunchy, colorful topping. Another idea is to tuck spoonfuls into tacos or wraps, adding a sweet-tart crunch that livens up the whole meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Apple Cranberry Coleslaw should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining its crunchy texture and fresh flavors, though it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later to fully appreciate the vibrant texture contrasts.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this coleslaw because the fresh vegetables and apples lose their crispness when thawed, and the creamy dressing can separate, affecting the texture and taste significantly.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold, so reheating is not needed. Just give it a quick stir right before serving to redistribute the dressing if it has settled.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple in the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Pink Lady are recommended for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, Granny Smith or Fuji apples also work well. Just choose a crisp apple that holds up nicely when julienned so it keeps that wonderful crunch.

Is the mayonnaise in the dressing necessary?

No, it’s optional! The plain Greek yogurt provides a creamy base on its own, making this coleslaw a bit lighter. Adding mayonnaise will enrich the dressing and add extra creaminess if you prefer a more indulgent texture.

Can I substitute the dried cranberries with fresh ones?

Fresh cranberries are quite tart and very firm, which changes the texture and flavor profile. Dried cranberries provide chewy sweetness that complements the salad beautifully. If you want to use fresh, consider lightly cooking them with a bit of honey to soften and sweeten before adding.

How long can I prepare the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate to let the flavors meld. Just avoid making it too far ahead as the apples might brown and the cabbage could get soggy. For best freshness, serve within the same day it’s made.

What can I add if I want extra protein in the salad?

To boost protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken breast slices, crispy bacon bits, or even chickpeas. These additions create a more substantial salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner while keeping all those fresh, bright flavors intact.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the way the sweet apples and tangy dried cranberries mingle with crunchy cabbage and a luscious creamy dressing in this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. It’s a recipe that’s both simple and show-stopping, perfect for everyday meals or special gatherings. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection—you might even find yourself craving it long after the season ends!