Apple Coleslaw: Fresh and Tantalizing Flavors

The crunch of crisp apples mingling with the buttery texture of cabbage brings back childhood memories of family picnics. This apple coleslaw is a refreshing twist on a classic that everyone adores. It’s the perfect accompaniment for summer BBQs and potlucks, lightening up our favorite hearty meals.

Imagine vibrant green cabbage, sweet apples, and a touch of tangy dressing coming together in a bowl. This dish is as simple as it gets, with no cooking required! Like your grandma’s favorite recipe, but it’s ready in a snap, using ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, it sneaks in some wholesome crunch with every bite!

I started whipping this up during warm afternoons back in 2015 when my kids first learned to appreciate fresh flavors. They couldn’t get enough of the crisp bites and sweet tanginess. The trick I found? Mix the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and lively. After all these years, it’s still a go-to recipe for busy days or weekend gatherings.

Olivia Farnsworth

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!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 182

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more if needed
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper plus more if needed
• 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

 

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth.
2. Add shredded green cabbage, matchstick-cut apple, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, fresh parsley, and chopped candied pecans to the bowl.
3. Gently toss all ingredients with tongs until everything is well coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
5. 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 Recipe

• Crunchy Delight: The combination of crispy cabbage and crunchy candied pecans creates a delightful texture that makes each bite satisfying.
• Sweet Meets Savory: The maple syrup and dried cranberries provide a sweet contrast to the savory cabbage, making this apple coleslaw a perfect balance of flavors.
• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish ahead of timeperfect for busy days or gatherings, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
• Flexible Ingredients: With simple swaps for dietary preferences, this coleslaw can easily adapt to suit everyone around your table.

Key Ingredients & Tools

This apple coleslaw features a blend of flavors and textures that are both comforting and refreshing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cabbage: 4 cups of shredded green cabbage for that classic crunch.
• Apples: 1 large apple, sliced into matchsticksany kind will work!
• Cranberries: ½ cup of dried cranberries for a lovely sweet punch.
• Pecans: Chopped candied pecans add delightful sweetness and nuttiness.
• Dressing: A creamy mix of mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and maple syrup, seasoned to taste.

Tools: You’ll need a large bowl, a whisk, and some tongs to mix it all together. Simple and effective!

How It Works Step-by-Step

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cabbage, apple, red onion, dried cranberries, parsley, and chopped pecans.
3. Use tongs to toss everything together until it’s well coated with the dressing.
4. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if neededbecause we all have different palates!
5. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Troubleshooting & Tips

Even the best recipes can have their quirks. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• If your coleslaw appears too watery: Make sure to mix the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
• For a creamier texture: Consider adding Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
• Fruits & Nuts: Swap the apple for a pear or try raisins instead of cranberries if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions & Storage

This apple coleslaw makes a delightful side for weekend BBQs, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home.

• Pair with: Roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even as a topping on sandwiches for an added crunch.
• Storage: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge; it’s best enjoyed within 2–3 days.

Quick Storage Tips

Expert Says

Incorporating apple coleslaw into your meals not only adds refreshing flavor but also boosts nutritional value. Apples are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and reducing inflammation. Pairing them with cabbage increases the crunch and adds vitamins, creating a delicious and balanced side dish.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Reddit!

My Perfect Apple Coleslaw Recipe

This Apple Coleslaw recipe took me a few tries to get just right. I remember the first time I made it; the apples were too mushy, and the dressing was too tangy! Eventually, I found that perfect balance between crisp and creamy, making it a fresh family favorite for our potlucks.

FAQs ( Apple Coleslaw )

Conclusion

This apple coleslaw is not only quick to whip up but also delightful with its blend of crunch and sweetness. You’ll love how it brightens up any meal, filling your kitchen with cozy aromas that say “home.”

Try adding a sprinkle of feta for a salty kick or swap out the apple for juicy pears. And remember, mixing the dressing right before serving keeps everything crisp and fresh a little trick I picked up from my dear aunt. Store any leftovers in the fridge, and they’ll be just as tasty the next day.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you grow up with a version of this? Share your memories or snap a photo of your coleslaw creation! Don’t forget to save or share this recipe with friends let’s spread the joy of homemade meals together!