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Fresh Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

fresh apple cranberry coleslaw - featured image

A crisp, colorful salad combining sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy cabbage with a tangy, creamy dressing. Perfect for quick, easy, and vibrant side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  • 2 cups finely shredded red cabbage
  • 2 medium fresh apples, thinly sliced or julienned (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (can substitute fresh cranberries if in season)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables and fruits: rinse and dry cabbages. Finely shred 4 cups green cabbage and 2 cups red cabbage. Peel and julienne or thinly slice apples. Shred carrots. Thinly slice green onions.
  2. Make the dressing: whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust honey or vinegar as preferred.
  3. Combine ingredients: in a large mixing bowl, add shredded cabbages, carrots, green onions, dried cranberries, and apple slices. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly without bruising apples or crushing cranberries.
  4. Optional add-ins: fold in ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  5. Chill and serve: cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly. Toss gently before serving.

Notes

To prevent apples from browning, toss them in lemon juice before mixing. Shred cabbage and carrots a day ahead for quicker prep. Toast nuts lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor. Store dressing separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess. Vegan and low-fat variations available by substituting mayonnaise and honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cranberry coleslaw, fresh coleslaw, apple salad, cranberry salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, autumn salad, colorful salad