Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Introduction

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is one of those refreshing side dishes that perfectly combines the crispness of fresh vegetables with the sweetness of fruit, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and flavorful. The first time I made this for a family gathering, I was unsure if everyone would be on board with the idea of fruit in their coleslaw. To my delight, everyone loved it! The mix of green and red cabbage provides the perfect crunch, while the tart apples and dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness that complements the creamy dressing beautifully. This dish has quickly become a go-to for holiday meals, summer barbecues, and even light lunches. Not only does it pair wonderfully with grilled meats, but it’s also an ideal addition to a festive holiday spread. If you’re looking for a new twist on traditional coleslaw, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 apple, julienned or thinly sliced (a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works well)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (depending on your sweetness preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and shredded carrots. These three ingredients form the crunchy base of the coleslaw. Then, slice the apple into thin matchstick-sized pieces or julienne it for an elegant touch. Add the apple slices to the cabbage mixture along with the dried cranberries and chopped green onions. The apples give a sweet, tart contrast to the rich and creamy dressing, while the cranberries provide a pop of color and sweetness.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), and salt and pepper. The mayonnaise creates a creamy base, while the apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness. The honey (or sugar) provides just the right amount of sweetness, and the salt and pepper bring all the flavors together. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Toss Everything Together:
   Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the ingredients together until the vegetables and fruit are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Make sure everything is well-mixed, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Chill and Serve:
   To let the flavors fully develop, refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the cabbage and other ingredients to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the dressing. If you have time, you can let it chill longer. Once the coleslaw has chilled and is ready to serve, give it another quick toss, taste it for seasoning, and adjust if needed.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories per serving: 190
• Total Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 13g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Pair it with grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a complete meal.
• Add a scoop to wraps or sandwiches for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Serve as a light lunch on its own with a side of crusty bread.
• Garnish with additional cranberries or apple slices for an elegant presentation at a holiday meal.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt to make this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies or vegans.
2. Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples add more crunch and flavor than canned or processed apple products. Stick to crisp apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for the best taste and texture.
3. Add Some Nuts: If you like a bit of crunch, try adding toasted walnuts or pecans to the coleslaw. The nuts complement the apples and cranberries well.
4. Experiment with Vinegar: If you prefer a slightly sweeter or milder flavor, try using a flavored vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, in place of apple cider vinegar.
5. Chill Longer for Better Flavor: Although it’s great after 1 hour, letting it chill for a few hours or even overnight allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

Recipe Variations

• Add More Fruits: Experiment with different fruits like pears, grapes, or mandarin oranges for a slightly different flavor. Pears offer a soft sweetness that pairs nicely with the crunchy cabbage.
• Spicy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a subtle kick.
• Lighten It Up: Use a low-fat or light mayo for a healthier version, or substitute some of the mayo with Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Dinners: Serve alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef for a festive touch. The sweetness of the apples and cranberries complements rich meats wonderfully.
• Barbecues: Pair with grilled meats such as chicken, ribs, or steak for a cool and crunchy contrast to smoky flavors.
• Sandwiches or Wraps: Add a scoop of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw to a turkey or chicken sandwich for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Picnics: Pack the coleslaw in a sealed container to take to picnics or potlucks. It’s easy to transport and always a crowd favorite.
• Lunch or Light Dinner: Serve this as a refreshing side dish to a simple salad or as part of a light dinner option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The cabbage may soften over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage and apple may change when thawed. However, you can freeze the dressing separately and mix it with fresh vegetables when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different kind of cabbage?
   Yes, you can use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture, but green and red cabbage are the most common.
2. Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
   Yes, this coleslaw tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayo.
4. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Fresh cranberries are too tart to replace dried cranberries in this recipe. Stick with dried for the right balance of sweetness.
5. Can I add other fruits?
   Yes, you can add fruits like pears, grapes, or even pineapple for a fun variation.
6. Can I substitute the mayo?
   Yes, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free version.
7. How can I make this coleslaw spicier?
   Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick.
8. Is there a way to make this coleslaw sweeter?
   You can add a little more honey or sugar to the dressing to make it sweeter, depending on your taste.
9. What can I serve this coleslaw with?
   It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, wraps, and even as a side for holiday meals.
10. How do I store leftover coleslaw?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Conclusion

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and delicious twist on the classic coleslaw. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, tart cranberries, and creamy dressing makes for a side dish that complements a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a summer barbecue, or simply looking for a light and healthy lunch, this coleslaw is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your tastes. Try this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw next time you need a side dish that’s both fresh and flavorful!