Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe: A Festive and Refreshing Side Dish

Looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion? Look no further than this delightful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe! This recipe takes the classic coleslaw and elevates it with a sweet and tart cranberry sauce and the crispness of fresh apples. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. Imagine the crunchy coleslaw mix, the sweet-tart burst of cranberries, the juicy sweetness of the apple, all perfectly balanced by a tangy and creamy dressing. This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and delivers exceptional results. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this festive and refreshing twist on a classic! This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast, Christmas dinner, or even a casual weeknight meal. So, let’s dive in and discover the magic of this delicious coleslaw!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe isn’t just another coleslaw; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart cranberry sauce perfectly complements the crispness of the apple and the creamy tang of the dressing. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll have a delicious coleslaw ready in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and easy side dish for a gathering.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe can be easily customized to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, add other fruits, or adjust the dressing to your preference. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, pork tenderloin, or even as a topping for fish tacos. The possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The coleslaw tastes even better after chilling for a while, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for parties and gatherings.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberries and apples make this coleslaw visually appealing. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, adding a touch of elegance to any meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Its unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation will impress your guests, making it a truly special side dish.

Why You Should Try This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Beyond its deliciousness and ease of preparation, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe offers a number of compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Unique Flavor Profile: This coleslaw offers a refreshing departure from the traditional, offering a sweet and tart twist that’s both festive and satisfying.
• Healthier Option: Compared to creamy, mayonnaise-heavy coleslaws, this recipe incorporates fresh fruit and a lighter dressing, making it a relatively healthier option. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!
• Impressive Guest-Pleaser: This coleslaw is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and unique flavor combination. It’s a conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Cost-Effective: The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare this coleslaw ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week as a healthy and flavorful side dish with various meals. It’s a great way to save time and effort.
• Expand Your Culinary Horizons: Trying this recipe is a great way to explore new flavor combinations and expand your culinary skills. You might discover a new favorite side dish!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for a successful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe. Let’s ensure you’re fully equipped for this culinary adventure!

Ingredients: A Detailed Breakdown

• 1 (16 ounce) bag coleslaw mix: This is the foundation of your coleslaw. Look for a pre-shredded mix that includes a variety of cabbages and carrots for optimal texture and flavor. Keywords: coleslaw mix, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots
• 1 (15 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce: This provides the signature sweet and tart flavor to your coleslaw. Whole berry cranberry sauce adds texture and visual appeal. Keywords: cranberry sauce, whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 medium apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced: Choose a crisp and juicy apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture. Other varieties work well too, but Honeycrisp and Fuji are excellent choices. Keywords: Honeycrisp apple, Fuji apple, diced apple
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and richness to the dressing. You can use your favorite brand or try a light mayonnaise for a slightly healthier option. Keywords: mayonnaise, light mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: This adds a delightful tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cranberries and apples. Apple cider vinegar also brings a subtle sweetness of its own. Keywords: apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Granulated sugar works best. Keywords: granulated sugar, sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a sharp and complex flavor to the dressing. Keywords: Dijon mustard, mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed: This adds a subtle earthy and slightly bitter note that complements the other ingredients. Keywords: celery seed, spice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the coleslaw. Keywords: salt, pepper, seasoning

Utensils: Your Culinary Arsenal

• Large bowl: For combining the coleslaw mix, cranberry sauce, and diced apple. A glass or stainless steel bowl is recommended.
• Medium bowl: For whisking together the dressing ingredients. Again, glass or stainless steel is preferred.
• Whisk: To thoroughly combine the dressing ingredients ensuring a smooth and emulsified texture.
• Knife and cutting board: For coring and dicing the apple. A sharp knife will make this process easier and safer.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients for consistent results.
• Serving bowl: To present your finished Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe attractively. A large bowl or individual serving bowls work well. Consider a bowl that complements the colors of the coleslaw.
• Spoon or spatula: For gently tossing the coleslaw with the dressing to coat evenly without bruising the vegetables. A rubber spatula is ideal for preventing damage.
• Airtight container (optional): For storing leftovers in the refrigerator. An airtight container will help keep the coleslaw fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Detailed Recipe Steps for the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Let’s embark on the journey of creating this delicious Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe, step by step. Follow these instructions for a perfect result:

1. Prepare the Apple: Wash, core, and dice the apple into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor. Tip: To prevent browning, toss the diced apple with a little lemon juice.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the coleslaw mix, drained cranberry sauce (if using canned sauce), and diced apple. Tip: Don’t overmix; you want to retain some texture in the vegetables.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and celery seed. Important: Whisk vigorously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is well emulsified.
4. Season the Dressing: Season the dressing generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more sugar for extra sweetness, vinegar for extra tang, or mustard for a bolder flavor.
5. Dress the Coleslaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture in the large bowl. Crucial Step: Gently toss the coleslaw to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the dressing. Avoid over-mixing, which can bruise the vegetables and make them soggy.
6. Chill (Recommended): Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a more harmonious and flavorful coleslaw. Best Results: Chilling is highly recommended for the best flavor experience. You can chill for up to 2 hours.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe chilled. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted poultry, or as a standalone side dish. Garnish with extra cranberries or chopped pecans for an elegant touch.

Tips and Variations for Your Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some tips and variations to help you customize it to your preferences:

• Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties. Granny Smith apples offer a tartness that complements the cranberries well, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji provide a balance of sweet and tart.
• Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade cranberry sauce for a more intense flavor. If you prefer a less sweet coleslaw, reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or use a reduced-sugar cranberry sauce.
• Add-ins: Consider adding other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture. Toasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, while dried cranberries or raisins provide extra sweetness and chewiness. A handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives can also brighten up the flavors.
• Dressing Variations: For a lighter dressing, reduce the amount of mayonnaise and increase the apple cider vinegar. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise for a healthier option. Consider adding a touch of maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use a vegan mayonnaise and ensure your cranberry sauce doesn’t contain any animal products. Many brands offer vegan mayonnaise and cranberry sauces.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients and ensure your cranberry sauce doesn’t contain any gluten-containing additives.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t overmix the coleslaw, as this can make it soggy. Be sure to fully dissolve the sugar in the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. And don’t skip the chilling step it significantly enhances the flavor.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe isn’t just delicious; it also offers several nutritional benefits. While precise nutritional values vary based on specific ingredients and quantities, here’s a general overview:

• Low in Calories: Compared to other coleslaw recipes, this one tends to be lower in calories due to the inclusion of fresh fruit and a less creamy dressing.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Apples are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber, promoting gut health and boosting immunity. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
• Fiber Content: The combination of cabbage, carrots, and apple provides a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content, helping to fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Probiotics (Optional): Consider adding a probiotic-rich ingredient like sauerkraut or kimchi for extra gut health benefits. Note that these add-ins should be added *after* the dressing is incorporated to maintain their beneficial bacteria.

Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and quantities.

FAQs about the Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe

Conclusion: The Delight of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The combination of sweet cranberries, crisp apples, and a tangy dressing is sure to impress your guests. Its ease of preparation and make-ahead convenience make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights and holiday gatherings. Remember to chill the coleslaw for optimal flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties and add-ins to create your perfect version! We hope you enjoy this festive and delicious recipe. Please share your experiences and photos in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it! For more delicious recipes, check out our Christmas Fudge or our Cranberry Jalapeño Dip!

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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with a Tangy Twist

A vibrant and refreshing twist on classic coleslaw, combining sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a zesty dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 16 ounce bag Coleslaw Mix
• 1 15 ounce can Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce
• 1 medium Honeycrisp or Fuji Apple cored and diced
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Celery Seed
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper or to taste

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, drained cranberry sauce, and diced apple.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and celery seed.
3. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture.
5. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. For best results, chill for at least 1 hour.
7. Serve chilled. Garnish with extra cranberries or chopped pecans, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also substitute other types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Braeburn.