Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, refreshing side that bursts with sweet, tart, and creamy flavors, this Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture crunchy cabbage mixed with crisp apple chunks, tangy dried cranberries, and the subtle warmth of ground ginger, all tied together by a luscious honey-mayo dressing. It’s quick to toss together, perfect for a crowd, and offers a beautiful balance of textures and tastes that brighten up any meal. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or just craving a fresh salad, this coleslaw nails it every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an important role in making the dish pop with flavor and texture. Fresh coleslaw mix provides the crispy base, while the apple adds sweet juiciness and the cranberries bring bursts of tartness. Creamy mayo and yogurt give smoothness, and toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 14 ounce bag 3-color coleslaw mix: A colorful blend of cabbage and carrots that delivers crispness and vibrant color.
- 1 large apple (chopped): Adds sweet juiciness and a fresh crunch; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Provide tart bursts of flavor that balance the sweetness of the apple and honey.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a toasty crunch and earthy richness that complements the fruit and cabbage.
- 4 green onions (sliced): Brightens the mix with subtle onion flavor and a splash of green color.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise: For the creamy base of the dressing that binds everything together.
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess and lightens the dressing’s richness.
- 1/4 cup honey: Brings natural sweetness and depth to balance the tart cranberries.
- 3/4 teaspoon dried (ground) ginger: Infuses a gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
How to Make Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Coleslaw Base
Start by dumping the 3-color coleslaw mix into a large bowl. Add your chopped apple, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and chopped walnuts. Give everything a gentle toss to combine so the flavors can mingle even before adding the dressing.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and dried ground ginger. Make sure it’s smooth and well blended – this dressing is what wraps all the crunchy, juicy ingredients in creamy, subtly sweet magic.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour the dressing over your coleslaw mixture and stir until every bit is evenly coated. You want that perfect balance of creamy dressing clinging to all the colorful, crisp bites.
Step 4: Adjust Creaminess (Optional)
If you prefer a lighter coleslaw, feel free to halve the mayo and yogurt quantities and reduce the honey and ginger slightly. This tweak results in a more delicate, less rich version while still packing plenty of flavor.
How to Serve Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or a few extra dried cranberries on top before serving for a beautiful presentation and an extra crunch or tart pop. A few fresh parsley leaves also brighten the look and add a touch of herbal freshness that complements the salad beautifully.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw is an absolute knockout alongside grilled meats like chicken or pork, and it pairs wonderfully with sandwiches or burgers, adding a crisp, fruity freshness that balances smoky or savory flavors. It also works as a vibrant side for holiday meals or casual BBQs.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy or feeding a crowd, serve the coleslaw in mini glass jars or small bowls for an elegant touch. Alternatively, use it as a crunchy topping on tacos for an unexpected twist that will have everyone asking for your Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This coleslaw keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld more beautifully overnight, but the apples may soften a bit, so if you prefer them super crisp, toss the apples in just before serving next time.
Freezing
Since this coleslaw is made with fresh apples and crunchy veggies, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor will suffer once thawed, so enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
This coleslaw is designed to be served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply give it a quick stir to refresh the dressing and serve immediately.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this coleslaw?
Absolutely! While Granny Smiths add tartness and crispness, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp will give your coleslaw a milder sweetness. Choose whichever apple flavor you love most.
Is it okay to substitute walnuts with another nut?
Yes, feel free to swap walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds if you’re looking for a different crunch or are catering to allergy considerations.
Can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Definitely! Use vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free yogurt alternative, and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
How long can I keep the Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe before it goes bad?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it remains fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the textures and flavors may start to decline, especially the apples.
What can I do if I don’t have dried cranberries?
You can substitute them with other dried fruits like cherries, blueberries, or even raisins. Just keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor profile but still add delightful bursts of sweetness.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a wonderfully simple yet vibrant Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe that’s ready in minutes and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again, whether as a cheerful side or a crisp snack. Don’t hesitate to give it a whirl at your next gathering or weeknight meal; I promise it will bring a fresh, joyful crunch to your table.
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Easy Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and refreshing Apple Cranberry Coleslaw combining crisp coleslaw mix with sweet apples, tangy dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy ginger-honey dressing. Perfect as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any meal needing a bright and flavorful salad.
Ingredients
Coleslaw Mix
- 14 ounce bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3/4 teaspoon dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine coleslaw ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the 3-color coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt or sour cream, honey, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined.
- Dress the coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Optional lighter dressing: For a less creamy version, use 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 3 tablespoons honey, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, then mix and dress the coleslaw as before.
Notes
- Use a crisp, sweet apple such as Fuji or Gala for best flavor and crunch.
- The coleslaw can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
- Substitute plain yogurt for sour cream to reduce richness and fat.
- Adjust honey amount to taste for desired sweetness level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
