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This post is all about Crispy Apple and Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe.
This refreshing coleslaw combines crunchy cabbage with sweet sliced apples and tart dried cranberries creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics or any meal.
The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy days. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, adding nuts or different fruits if desired.
Vibrant Ingredients
This coleslaw is a delightful mix of colors and textures, featuring shredded green and red cabbage that forms the base of the dish. The addition of crisp apple slices brings a refreshing sweetness, while plump dried cranberries add a tart contrast.
The combination of these ingredients creates a visually appealing salad that is as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat. The bright colors of the apples and cranberries stand out against the green and purple hues of the cabbage, making it an inviting side dish for any meal.
Simple Preparation
Preparing this coleslaw is straightforward and quick, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. Begin by shredding the cabbage and slicing the apples, ensuring that everything is ready to mix.
Once the vegetables are prepared, toss them together in a large bowl with the dried cranberries. This step allows the flavors to start mingling even before the dressing is added.
Delicious Dressing
The creamy dressing is what ties this dish together, providing a rich and smooth coating for the crunchy ingredients. Made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or sugar, it balances the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
Whisking the dressing until smooth is key, as it ensures an even distribution when combined with the salad. Adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper can enhance the overall flavor profile, making it just right for your taste.
Optional Crunch
For those who enjoy a bit of extra texture, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can elevate the dish further. These nuts not only contribute a satisfying crunch but also complement the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
Mixing in the nuts is an optional step, but it can make a significant difference in the overall experience of the coleslaw. This added layer of flavor and texture can make the dish even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Chilling the coleslaw for at least 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This makes it a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any meal where you want a refreshing complement.
When ready to serve, present it in a vibrant bowl, garnished with additional nuts if desired. A rustic wooden table provides a charming backdrop, making the dish even more inviting.
Nutritional Benefits
This coleslaw not only looks great but also offers a variety of nutritional benefits. With a mix of vegetables and fruits, it provides essential vitamins and minerals while remaining relatively low in calories.
Each serving contains a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a wholesome addition to any meal. The inclusion of fresh ingredients ensures that you’re getting the most out of your dish, both in flavor and nutrition.
Easy Apple and Cranberry Coleslaw
This coleslaw features shredded cabbage mixed with crisp apple slices and chewy dried cranberries, all tossed in a light dressing. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage.
- Add Apples and Cranberries: Toss in the sliced apples and dried cranberries, mixing well.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Optional Additions: If using, stir in the chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
