Cranberry Apple Coleslaw: A Cozy Fall Delight
As the crisp air begins to embrace us and the leaves transform into shades of amber and gold, I can’t help but reminisce about the cozy family gatherings that accompany the arrival of fall. This time of year always tug at my heartstrings—children laughing, the warm aroma of cinnamon and cloves wafting through the air, and hearty meals shared around the dining table. One dish that has become a cherished staple on our holiday table is my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw. This creamy, nourishing side dish brightens our plates and warms our souls.
The balance of tart cranberries, crunchy apples, and tender cabbage makes this coleslaw an instant favorite. Not only is it a perfect companion to roasted meats or Thanksgiving turkey, but it is also a fantastic option for easy weeknight dinners or potlucks. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- No baking required—just toss and chill!
- A delightful blend of flavors and textures that please the whole family.
- A crowd-pleaser at gatherings, perfect for fall potlucks and holiday feasts.
- Nutritious and light, letting you indulge without the guilt.
What You’ll Need
To create this fall-inspired Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, gather these simple yet vibrant ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, diced (I prefer sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji!)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
Making this luscious Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is as easy as one, two, three! Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dish to life:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and dried cranberries. Feel free to run your fingers through those colorful ingredients—don’t they just feel like fall?
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. The aromas of the ingredients combining is pure bliss!
- Gently pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is beautifully coated. It should glisten and look so inviting.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to mingle and deepen—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Serve cold as a refreshing side dish, and watch your family and friends smile with every bite!
Delicious Variations to Try
While this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is simply delightful as is, here are a few fun ways to customize it to your taste:
- Add a Crunchy Element: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture and a nourishing boost.
- Zest it Up: Incorporate some zesty orange or lemon juice to bring a bright twist to the dressing.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, swap the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie, creamy variant that still feels indulgent.
- Additional Veggies: Experiment with adding grated carrots or sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To ensure your coleslaw is perfectly scrumptious every time, here are some of my best kitchen secrets:
- Make it Ahead: This coleslaw tastes even better after it has sat for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Prepare it a day ahead for your next gathering!
- Choosing Apples: Stick to sweet breeds for this recipe, as they balance the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cabbage will soften over time, but the flavors will continue to develop.
- Shredding Tip: For the perfect shredded cabbage, use a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer for even slices.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s what to expect in each serving of this vibrant Cranberry Apple Coleslaw:
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This coleslaw is perfect for make-ahead meal preparation. Just make sure to give it some time to chill in the fridge before serving.Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap in different fruits like pears or peaches, and even add in other veggies like carrots or radishes.How do I store leftovers?
Store any uneaten coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.How long does it last?
For the freshest taste, enjoy your Cranberry Apple Coleslaw within three days of making it, but it gets tastier as the flavors meld.
Wrapping It Up
This cozy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw captures the essence of fall in every delightful bite. Its harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and creamy is sure to warm your heart and make your gatherings even more special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive potluck, this coleslaw will undoubtedly become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire. Save this Cranberry Apple Coleslaw to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking, dear friends!
Print
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, nourishing coleslaw with a delightful blend of tart cranberries, crunchy apples, and tender cabbage, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, diced (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and dried cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Gently pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until coated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
This coleslaw tastes even better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Use sweet apples to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: coleslaw, fall recipes, side dish, Thanksgiving, healthy eating