Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

Looking to add a burst of flavor and color to your next gathering? Look no further than this delightful Cranberry Apple Coleslaw recipe! With its crisp veggies, sweet apples, and a pop of tart cranberries, this coleslaw is a go-to side dish for picnics and barbecues alike. It’s fresh, fast, and never boring—perfect for those times when you want something that stands out on the table.

I first created this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw during a summer when I was craving a lighter alternative to traditional mayo-laden salads, and it was an instant hit! The fruity crunch from the crisp tart apples paired with the sweetness of the dried cranberries adds a refreshing twist to your meal. Whether you’re reminiscing about summer gatherings or looking to impress your guests, this coleslaw is sure to bring smiles and empty bowls.

This recipe is versatile too! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. From using pears or grapes instead of apples to adding toasted nuts for extra crunch, the possibilities are endless. So, whip up a batch of this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, serve it alongside your favorite dishes, and watch it disappear in no time—this vibrant and flavorful coleslaw is a surefire crowd-pleaser!

Quick Benefits

• Colorful and Nutritious: Packed with vibrant colors from apples, cranberries, and red onion, this coleslaw is not only visually appealing but also rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes and preferences by swapping ingredients like apples for pears, dried cranberries for raisins, or red onion for green onions.
• Light and Refreshing: The combination of crisp veggies, sweet apples, and tangy dressing offers a refreshing and lighter alternative to traditional mayonnaise-heavy coleslaw, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for heavier dishes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days, with the option to mix in the dressing and apples just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing! Recipe

• Bright and Refreshing: The combination of crisp veggies, sweet apples, and tart cranberries bring a burst of freshness to your meal.
• Versatile: Perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish for any occasion.
• Light and Creamy Dressing: The mayo and apple cider vinegar dressing is creamy yet light, complementing the fruits and veggies without being heavy.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients like apples for pears or grapes, dried cranberries for raisins, and red onion for green onions to suit your taste preferences.
• Memorable Flavors: The fruity crunch and vibrant colors make this coleslaw a standout dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dressing in advance, and toss it with the slaw and apples just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
• Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside BBQ chicken, pulled pork, sandwiches, casseroles, or tacos for a delightful crunch and contrast to heavier dishes.
• Seasonal Twists: Experiment with different fruits, nuts, and cabbage varieties to create unique variations for different seasons and occasions.
• Easy Storage: Can be stored covered in the fridge for up to three days, maintaining its freshness and crunch for multiple servings.

Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

Vegetables and Fruits

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced or diced
• 1 bag coleslaw mix (approximately 14 ounces)

Dried Fruit

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Dressing

• 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Black pepper, to taste

Pro Tips for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

For optimal freshness and presentation, toss the sliced apples with a splash of lemon juice before adding them to the coleslaw. This simple step will keep the apples looking vibrant and prevent browning.

Consider using Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise in the dressing. It adds creaminess and a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.

To enhance the flavors, prepare the coleslaw at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld together. Additionally, consider adding chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

How to Make Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

Step 1: Combine Produce Ingredients

Combine coleslaw mix, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Coleslaw and Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and gently mix to coat evenly.

Step 4: Season and Finish

Season coleslaw with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The apples in the coleslaw hold up well to the creamy dressing, but if you’re making it ahead of time, sprinkle a little lemon juice over the sliced apples to prevent browning. If any excess moisture accumulates, simply give the coleslaw a quick toss before serving to refresh the dish.

While the Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is not suitable for freezing due to the texture changes in the veggies, you can prepare the dressing separately and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. Then, toss the dressing with the slaw and apples just before serving for the best taste and texture. This flavorful coleslaw is a versatile dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken, pulled pork, sandwiches, casseroles, or spicy tacos, offering a refreshing crunch and a burst of fruity sweetness to your meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have apples on hand, pears or crisp seedless grapes can be used as substitutes to add a different fruity flavor to the coleslaw. If you’re out of dried cranberries, raisins or chopped dried apricots can be used instead to provide a similar sweet and chewy element. For those who prefer a milder onion flavor, thinly sliced green onions can be used as a replacement for the red onion or omitted altogether.

Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing with a tangy flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a nuttier crunch, chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top of the coleslaw. Remember to keep the coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving the Cranberry Apple Coleslaw in hollowed-out apple cups. Simply scoop out the core of an apple, leaving a sturdy shell, and fill it with the coleslaw mixture. This not only adds a fun presentation element but also infuses the dish with even more apple flavor.

Another idea is to use the Cranberry Apple Coleslaw as a topping for grilled hot dogs or sausages. The sweet and tangy flavors of the coleslaw will complement the savory meat beautifully, adding a refreshing and crunchy contrast to every bite. It’s a delicious twist on a classic cookout favorite that your guests are sure to love.

FAQs for Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative that brings creaminess and a touch of tang to the dressing.

Is it recommended to prepare this coleslaw in advance?

Absolutely. Preparing it at least 30 minutes in advance allows flavors to blend well for a tastier result.

Can I add chopped toasted nuts to this coleslaw?

Chopped toasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts make delicious additions for added texture.

How long can I store this coleslaw in the refrigerator?

Keep coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and crunch.

Conclusion

As you set out to create this delightful Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, remember that this recipe is endlessly versatile and open to your personal touch. Whether enjoyed at a summer picnic or alongside a comforting fall dinner, the bright flavors and colorful presentation of this coleslaw are sure to impress. So, get ready to delight your taste buds with the delightful combination of crisp apples, tart cranberries, and creamy dressing.

With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a true crowd-pleaser that will disappear within moments of serving. So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch for your next gathering and watch as it becomes a new favorite at the table. Embrace the season with this delightful recipe, and savor the joy it brings to your dining experience. Enjoy the process of creating this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing!

“Fresh and vibrant Cranberry Apple Coleslaw—a fruity twist on a classic side that adds crunch and color to any meal!”

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Prep Time20 min

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time20 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (approximately 6 side servings)

Ingredients

Vegetables and Fruits

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced or diced
• 1 bag coleslaw mix (approximately 14 ounces)

Dried Fruit

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Dressing

• 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Produce Ingredients: Combine coleslaw mix, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Coleslaw and Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and gently mix to coat evenly.
4. Season and Finish: Season coleslaw with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.