Description
This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Coleslaw combines the crispness of green and red cabbage with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple and dried cranberries. Enhanced with a light, zesty dressing made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, this coleslaw is perfect as a side dish for any meal. The optional additions of green onions, parsley, and crunchy nuts add layers of texture and freshness, making it a deliciously vibrant and healthy salad option.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Fruits
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 large apple (Gala or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced or julienned
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional)
Dried Fruit & Nuts
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (pecans or almonds, optional)
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Shred the green and red cabbages finely and thinly slice or julienne the apple. If including, chop the green onions, parsley, and nuts into small pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified to form a smooth dressing.
- Combine Salad Components: Place the shredded cabbages, sliced apple, dried cranberries, chopped green onions, and parsley into a large mixing bowl.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients, then mix thoroughly to coat all components evenly ensuring every bite has balanced flavor.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Final Touch and Serve: Toss the coleslaw once more before serving and sprinkle the chopped nuts on top for extra texture and crunch.
Notes
- For the best sweetness and crunch, use Gala or Honeycrisp apples.
- Allowing the coleslaw to chill improves the flavor but it can be served immediately if needed.
- Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in the dressing to suit your preferred sweetness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped nuts.
- This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats or as a fresh side for sandwiches and burgers.
