Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

Welcome to a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s sure to brighten up your table – Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw! This colorful slaw is a delightful mix of tangy apple, crispy kohlrabi, and toasted hazelnuts, all brought together with a zesty dressing. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor and crunch to any meal, this slaw is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Every time kohlrabi makes its appearance at the market, I can’t wait to whip up this Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw. The nutty crunch of hazelnuts, paired with the crisp apple and kohlrabi, creates a symphony of flavors that never fails to impress. Whether served as a side dish to complement rich grilled entrees or as a standalone salad, this slaw is a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

The toasty aroma and satisfying crunch that hazelnuts bring to this dish elevate it to a whole new level. I’ve had friends and family requesting this recipe over and over again, each time adding their own twist to it. So, gather your ingredients, toss them together, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors and textures of this Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw – a dish that truly celebrates the essence of seasonal produce and good company.

Quick Benefits

• Adds a vibrant and colorful touch to any meal with tangy apple, fresh herbs, and toasted hazelnuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Provides a refreshing contrast to rich grilled dishes or cozy winter meals, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing side.
• Offers a variety of ingredient swaps and adaptations for dietary preferences, such as vegan options using maple syrup and plant-based mustard.
• Can be prepared in advance, with the slaw staying crisp for up to two days, making it a convenient option for potlucks and parties.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts Recipe

• Vibrant Flavor Profile: This slaw offers a refreshing and tangy taste with a perfect balance of sweetness from apples, honey, and a hint of mustard, all complemented by the nutty crunch of hazelnuts.
• Textural Contrast: The combination of crispy kohlrabi, crunchy hazelnuts, and juicy apples provides a delightful mix of textures that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients like nuts and herbs to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish for different seasons and occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: With the option to prepare elements in advance and assemble just before serving, this slaw is a practical choice for busy days or entertaining guests.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether served at family dinners, potlucks, or as a side to grilled dishes, this slaw is bound to be a hit, with guests often coming back for seconds.
• Cultural Connection: Embrace the heritage of kohlrabi in German and Eastern European cuisines while adding your twist to a classic recipe that brings people together.
• Fresh and Wholesome: With the use of fresh, seasonal produce and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, this slaw offers a nutritious option that is both delicious and fulfilling.

Ingredients for Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

Dressing

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil or hazelnut oil
• 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey

Slaw

• 1 large apple, cored and cut into matchsticks
• 1/4 cup toasted chopped hazelnuts
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley, more for garnish
• 1 medium kohlrabi, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

Pro Tips for Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

To enhance the flavors of this Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw, try using hazelnut oil for a richer nutty taste. Remember to toss in the toasted hazelnuts just before serving to maintain their satisfying crunch. For a vegan twist, substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure your mustard and bread are plant-based for a fully vegan dish.

For a more vibrant and colorful slaw, leave the apples unpeeled for added visual appeal and fiber. If you’re prepping ahead, cut the kohlrabi and onion the day before and store them separately, only mixing in the dressing right before serving to keep the slaw fresh and crisp. Experiment with different nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans to add complexity and crunch to this refreshing dish.

How to Make Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine olive oil or hazelnut oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, whole grain mustard, and fine sea salt in a large mixing bowl, whisking until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Slaw Ingredients

Combine the apple matchsticks, kohlrabi matchsticks, thinly sliced red onion, toasted chopped hazelnuts, and chopped parsley in the bowl.

Step 3: Toss and Finish

Ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing by tossing the mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with parsley and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw, place it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The slaw will stay crisp for up to two days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, it’s best to hold off on adding the hazelnuts until just before serving to maintain their crunch. Garnish with extra parsley right before serving to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

For longer storage, leftovers can be stored in a glass bowl for optimal flavor. If you prefer a more saucy slaw, feel free to double the dressing. Additionally, make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning, especially the salt, before serving as the flavors may mellow over time. While the slaw is best enjoyed fresh, it can be made a few hours ahead of time by storing it chilled and giving it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free version of this slaw, you can easily swap out the hazelnuts with toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans. These alternatives will provide a similar crunchy texture and flavor complexity to the dish. Feel free to use whichever nut you prefer or have on hand to cater to any dietary restrictions or personal taste preferences.

If you’re looking to make this slaw vegan-friendly, you can substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. Both of these sweeteners will offer a similar level of sweetness while keeping the dish plant-based. Additionally, ensure that your mustard and bread are plant-based options if you are aiming for a completely vegan version of this flavorful kohlrabi apple hazelnut slaw. Making these simple swaps will allow you to enjoy this refreshing and vibrant slaw while accommodating different dietary needs and preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try incorporating this vibrant Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw into a build-your-own taco bar. Provide a variety of tortillas, proteins such as grilled chicken or pulled pork, and toppings like avocado slices and crumbled queso fresco. Guests can fill their tacos with the refreshing slaw for a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.

Another fun idea is to serve this slaw in lettuce cups as part of a DIY lettuce wrap station at your next gathering. Offer different types of lettuce leaves, protein options like marinated tofu or shrimp, and additional toppings such as sesame seeds and sriracha mayo. The Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw will add a refreshing and crisp element to the wraps, creating a light and satisfying meal for your guests.

FAQs for Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

Can I substitute hazelnuts with other nuts in this slaw?

Yes, toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans can be used as a substitution for hazelnuts. They will add a similar crunch and flavor complexity to the slaw.

Can I make this slaw in advance?

Yes, you can make this slaw a few hours in advance. Store it chilled in the refrigerator and toss it gently before serving to ensure the ingredients stay fresh and crisp.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to make a vegan-friendly version of this slaw. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Is it necessary to peel the apples for this slaw?

Peeling the apples is optional. You can leave them unpeeled for added color and fiber in the slaw, or peel them based on your preference.

Conclusion

I hope you feel inspired to recreate this vibrant and flavorful Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw in your own kitchen. The combination of crisp kohlrabi, tangy apple, and toasty hazelnuts truly makes for a delightful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a cozy winter meal, or simply looking for a refreshing side dish, this slaw is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own – perhaps trying different nuts or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Embrace the beauty of seasonal produce and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw and savor every crunchy, flavorful bite. Happy cooking!

Crunchy Kohlrabi Apple Slaw with Hazelnuts

Crunchy and vibrant Kohlrabi Apple Hazelnut Slaw, a refreshing blend of apple, kohlrabi, and hazelnuts with a tangy dressing, perfect for any meal.

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Prep Time15 min

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time15 min

CuisineModern American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 side servings)

Ingredients

Dressing

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil or hazelnut oil
• 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey

Slaw

• 1 large apple, cored and cut into matchsticks
• 1/4 cup toasted chopped hazelnuts
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley, more for garnish
• 1 medium kohlrabi, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: Combine olive oil or hazelnut oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, whole grain mustard, and fine sea salt in a large mixing bowl, whisking until well combined.
2. Combine Slaw Ingredients: Combine the apple matchsticks, kohlrabi matchsticks, thinly sliced red onion, toasted chopped hazelnuts, and chopped parsley in the bowl.
3. Toss and Finish: Ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing by tossing the mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with parsley and serve promptly.