Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic side dish, combining sweet and tart flavors with a crunchy texture. It’s perfect for brightening up any meal with a burst of autumn-inspired ingredients.
Ingredients
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
- ¾ cup mayo
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 2: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and dried ground ginger until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
- Step 4: For a lighter version, reduce the amounts of mayo and yogurt used in the dressing according to your preference.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing for extra brightness and to prevent the apple from browning.
- Substitute pecans for walnuts to vary the nutty flavor and texture.
- For a vegan version, use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt alternatives.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors improve after sitting, but the nuts may soften over time. Stir gently before serving, and enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop fully.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji are ideal because they add a crisp texture and balance the sweetness of the cranberries and honey.
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Apple Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a refreshing and colorful salad combining crisp coleslaw mix with sweet apples, tangy dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy honey-ginger dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a vibrant addition to your picnic or potluck, this easy no-cook recipe blends sweet, tart, and nutty flavors for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Coleslaw Mix
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the 3-color coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and dried ground ginger until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Dressing if Desired: For a lighter version of the coleslaw, you can reduce the quantities of mayonnaise and yogurt slightly, mixing again to achieve the preferred creaminess.
- Chill Before Serving: Serve the salad immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use crisp apples such as Honeycrisp or Fuji to add natural sweetness and crunch.
- Dried cranberries add a delightful tartness, but you can substitute with dried cherries or raisins.
- Walnuts provide a crunchy texture; pecans or almonds are good alternatives.
- The dressing can be adjusted to taste by varying the amount of honey for sweetness.
- This coleslaw can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; stir before serving.
- To keep the apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before mixing into the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple coleslaw, cranberry coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, fall salad, no-cook salad, walnut salad, honey ginger dressing
