There’s nothing quite like that crunch of a fresh apple against your teeth on a crisp afternoon. This apple coleslaw brings that bright, tangy flavor together with vibrant colors, making it a must-have at any gathering. It’s been the talk of BBQs and picnics lately who can resist a refreshing twist on a classic side?
Imagine crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and a sprinkle of crunchy pecans dancing together in a creamy dressing. It’s easy, cozy, and surprisingly satisfying just like the one your grandma made, but without the fuss. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples you likely already have at home, making it ideal for last-minute preparations.
Started whipping this up during the fall of 2020 while hunting for ways to use up all those Honeycrisp apples. I remember my best friend took a bite and exclaimed, “This is the coleslaw I didn’t know I needed!” The secret? A dash of apple cider vinegar in the dressing adds that perfect zing. With over ten years of testing recipes under my belt, I can confidently say this one is a keeper!
Yesica Andrews
Apple Coleslaw Recipe with Vibrant and Delicious Twist
This apple coleslaw is a delightful mix of creamy apple coleslaw with cranberries and crunchy pecans almonds, adding a fresh and flavorful twist to the classic coleslaw. It blends sweet, savory, and tangy elements with a maple balsamic dressing, making it perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or meal-prep. Enjoy a creamy apple coleslaw with cranberries that’s both vibrant and delicious!
4 cups shredded green cabbage (from about ½ head of cabbage)
1 large apple cut into matchsticks (any kind will work)
½ cup thinly sliced red onion (from about ½ of a medium onion)
½ cup dried cranberries (I used sweetened)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ cup candied pecans chopped (see notes for alternatives)
Method
Whisk together mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth.
Add shredded green cabbage, matchstick-cut apple, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, fresh parsley, and chopped candied pecans to the bowl.
Gently toss all ingredients with tongs until everything is well coated with the dressing.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
Serve the coleslaw right away or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
For best flavor, prepare the dressing separately and toss the coleslaw up to 30 minutes before serving. Leftovers store well and taste great the next day. This dish serves 8 as a side or 4 as a main salad paired with protein. Candied pecans can be swapped with toasted almonds, pistachios, or seeds for a nut-free option. Vegan variations can be made using vegan mayo and vegan candied nuts. Greek yogurt replaces mayo with more salt; honey or other sweeteners work instead of maple syrup; pears or other dried fruits can substitute apple and cranberries respectively.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Coleslaw
Simple & Fresh: This apple coleslaw comes together in just 15 minutes using fresh ingredients, making it an easy side dish.
Crunchy & Creamy: The combination of crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and creamy dressing offers a delightful texture and flavor in every bite.
Perfect for Gatherings: Its bright colors and savory-sweet profile make it an attractive addition to BBQs, potlucks, or fall get-togethers.
Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance! The flavors develop beautifully, and leftovers hold up well in the fridge.
Key Ingredients & Tools
To bring your apple coleslaw to life, gather the following ingredients:
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 cups shredded green cabbage (about ½ head)
1 large apple (cut into matchsticks)
½ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ cup chopped candied pecans
For tools, you’ll need:
A large bowl
A whisk
Tongs for mixing
How It Works Step-by-Step
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the shredded cabbage, matchstick apple, red onion, cranberries, parsley, and candied pecans.
Use tongs to combine everything well. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Let it sit covered in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors, or dive right in!
Serving & Storage Tips
This apple coleslaw can be enjoyed in various ways:
Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or tacos at a barbecue.
Meal Prep: Great for lunches or light dinners, pairing well with roasted veggies or proteins.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The coleslaw will soften a bit but remains delicious!
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Duration
Airtight container in the fridge
Up to 2 days
Make-ahead (dressing only)
1 week in the fridge
Tweaks & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to make it your own:
Nuts: Swap candied pecans with almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
No Mayo Version: For a No Mayo Apple Coleslaw Vinegar option, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Fruit Alternatives: Feel free to switch the apple for a pear or try different dried fruits such as raisins or figs!
Embrace creativity and make this Creamy Apple Coleslaw with Cranberries your own! Whether it’s a fall BBQ or an everyday meal, this vibrant coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Expert Says
Incorporating fresh apples into your apple coleslaw not only adds natural sweetness but also enhances its nutritional profile. Apples are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and reducing inflammation. Their crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing, making each bite enjoyable.
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Finding My Perfect Apple Coleslaw
Perfecting this apple coleslaw was quite the adventure, taking me several batches to get it just right. The first attempt was a tangy disaster, but eventually, I discovered the magic of finding the right balance between sweet apples and crunchy cabbage. Now, every bite reminds me of family picnics and fresh flavors all summer long.
FAQs ( Apple Coleslaw )
What is the best apple for coleslaw?
For this dish, Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are excellent choices. They add a nice crunch and a balance of sweetness and tartness that enhances the overall flavor of the slaw.
How can I keep apple coleslaw from turning brown?
To prevent browning, toss the apple slices with lemon juice as soon as you cut them. The acidity helps inhibit oxidation and keeps the apples looking fresh in your coleslaw.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this meal a few hours in advance. However, I recommend adding the dressing right before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the cabbage and apples.
Can I add other fruits to my coleslaw?
Absolutely! Pineapple, raisins, or even mandarin oranges can bring a fun twist to this recipe. Just be sure to balance sweet fruits with tangy flavors in your dressing.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this apple coleslaw comes together beautifully in just 15 minutes, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. The crunchy cabbage and sweet apples create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with your favorite BBQ dishes.
Feel free to add roasted nuts for an extra crunch or try a splash of citrus for a fresh twist! A little hack I learned from my grandma is to let it chill longer trust me, the flavors deepen beautifully.
I’d love to hear how you enjoy this recipe! Did you grow up with a favorite slaw? Share your thoughts and pictures, and don’t forget to save this to share with loved ones. Happy cooking, friends!
