This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings together the crisp freshness of apples with the tangy bite of dried cranberries, perfectly balanced with crunchy walnuts and a creamy ginger dressing. It’s a refreshing change from traditional coleslaw, with flavors that celebrate the best of fall’s bounty. The colorful mix of shredded cabbage, green onions, and autumnal fruit and nuts creates a beautiful, inviting dish that’s just as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners, this coleslaw is a versatile side that complements a range of mains. The recipe is easy to make ahead, letting you save time and enjoy every moment with friends and family. Serve this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw as a vibrant accompaniment to roasted meats, or enjoy it as a light lunch all on its own.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (about 6-7 cups)
- 1 large apple, chopped (Gala or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 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 ground ginger
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, walnuts, and green onions. Toss to mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream, honey, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and stir until evenly coated. For a lighter option, reduce mayonnaise and yogurt to 1/2 cup each, with 3 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon ginger.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 191 kcal | Servings: 6
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw recipe is a beautiful fusion of autumn flavors, combining the crispness of fresh apples with the tang of dried cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, all nestled in a creamy ginger dressing. While it shares a similar foundation with traditional coleslaw, this recipe takes a seasonal twist by adding quintessential fall ingredients, making it perfect for Thanksgiving feasts, holiday gatherings, or even simple weeknight dinners. Beyond just being delicious, the health benefits from the ingredients make it a nutritious choice as well, offering a refreshing way to enjoy seasonal produce.
The Inspiration Behind Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Coleslaw is typically thought of as a summer dish, often accompanying barbecue meals and picnics. However, there’s no reason coleslaw should be confined to warmer weather. This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw reimagines the dish by incorporating fall flavors that transition it seamlessly into autumn. The idea behind this dish is to blend the classic textures of coleslaw – the crunch, creaminess, and slight tang – with ingredients that remind us of cool autumn days. Adding apples, cranberries, and walnuts not only infuses the dish with warm flavors but also introduces a beautiful array of colors that make it visually appealing. It’s both a comforting and refreshing dish, bridging the gap between summer salads and heartier fall dishes.
Why This Coleslaw is a Standout Side Dish
What sets this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw apart is its versatility. It’s a dish that can be served at both formal holiday gatherings and casual meals, and it complements a variety of main courses. Whether it’s roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a light pasta dish, this coleslaw brings a refreshing and slightly sweet balance to rich and savory flavors. Its ease of preparation is another big plus, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. This makes it a stress-free addition to any meal, especially during the busy holiday season.
Nutritional Benefits of Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Not only does this recipe taste great, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The cabbage base is high in fiber and low in calories, making it an ideal ingredient for healthy eating. Cabbage is also a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune health, particularly as the cooler months approach. The addition of apples brings an extra dose of fiber and antioxidants, while cranberries add a unique tartness and are packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, and various antioxidants. Walnuts, a source of heart-healthy fats, provide a satisfying crunch and bring some extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids to the dish.
Tips and Variations for Customizing Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
One of the greatest features of this recipe is its flexibility. It can be adjusted easily based on dietary preferences, personal taste, or even what ingredients are on hand. Here are a few ways to customize this coleslaw:
- Choose Your Cabbage: While the recipe calls for a pre-mixed coleslaw bag for convenience, you can use freshly shredded cabbage or a combination of red and green cabbage for extra color and flavor.
- Experiment with Apples: For a milder sweetness, try using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. For a tart flavor, Granny Smith apples make an excellent choice. Each type of apple brings a different level of sweetness and acidity to the coleslaw.
- Change Up the Nuts: Walnuts add richness and a slightly earthy flavor to the salad, but other nuts can work just as well. Try using pecans for a softer texture, almonds for a crunchier bite, or skip the nuts entirely if allergies are a concern.
- Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess: A bit of crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese adds a salty, creamy element that pairs well with the sweet and tart flavors in the dish.
- Swap the Dressing Ingredients: The ginger dressing brings a warm spice that’s perfect for fall, but feel free to customize it. For a slightly tangier profile, add a splash of apple cider vinegar, or for a bit of spice, add a dash of Dijon mustard.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is perfect as a standalone side dish but can also be used creatively in other ways. Serve it as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or tacos to add crunch and flavor. For potlucks or family-style gatherings, place the coleslaw in a decorative bowl and garnish it with extra apple slices, cranberries, and walnuts for a beautiful presentation. It’s also an ideal dish to bring to holiday parties, as it’s easy to transport and doesn’t require reheating.
This coleslaw is excellent paired with roasted meats, particularly pork and turkey, as the slight sweetness balances the savory flavors of the meat. For a vegetarian-friendly meal, consider pairing it with roasted squash, sweet potatoes, or grilled cauliflower steaks for a complete autumn-inspired dinner.
How to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time
This recipe is a great option for make-ahead meal planning, allowing for stress-free hosting. If you’re preparing it in advance, consider these tips:
- Store Ingredients Separately: If you want to keep the coleslaw crisp, store the dressing and coleslaw mix separately. This will prevent the cabbage from softening too much. Combine them right before serving to maintain that fresh crunch.
- Refrigerate Properly: Coleslaw can last in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours after preparation, so it’s perfect for busy hosts. Just make sure to keep it well-covered to prevent the apples from browning and the flavors from diminishing.
- Refresh the Salad Before Serving: If the coleslaw has been refrigerated for a day, give it a quick toss and add a bit more dressing if needed to revive the flavors.
Conclusion:
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings together the best of fall in a dish that’s simple to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Its versatility allows it to serve as a side for a variety of main courses, making it a reliable recipe for both formal occasions and casual meals. The crisp apples, tart cranberries, and creamy ginger dressing offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that are sure to please any crowd. This coleslaw is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a flavorful, healthy choice that adds a touch of seasonal charm to any table.
Print
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw brings together the crisp freshness of apples with the tangy bite of dried cranberries, perfectly balanced with crunchy walnuts and a creamy ginger dressing. It’s a refreshing change from traditional coleslaw, with flavors that celebrate the best of fall’s bounty. The colorful mix of shredded cabbage, green onions, and autumnal fruit and nuts creates a beautiful, inviting dish that’s just as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners, this coleslaw is a versatile side that complements a range of mains. The recipe is easy to make ahead, letting you save time and enjoy every moment with friends and family. Serve this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw as a vibrant accompaniment to roasted meats, or enjoy it as a light lunch all on its own.
Ingredients
- 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (about 6–7 cups)
- 1 large apple, chopped (Gala or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 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 ground ginger
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, walnuts, and green onions. Toss to mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream, honey, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and stir until evenly coated. For a lighter option, reduce mayonnaise and yogurt to 1/2 cup each, with 3 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon ginger.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
