Apple Cranberry Coleslaw| Fresh, Crunchy & Colorful Side Dish

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger. My adventures have taken me from Mediterranean markets to Midwest potlucks, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary. Some of the most beloved recipes in my collection are simple, colorful, and brimming with freshness—like this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a bright, crunchy celebration of sweet and tart flavors, tied together in a creamy dressing that makes every bite irresistible.

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a modern twist on classic coleslaw. Instead of being heavy or predictable, this version is crisp, vibrant, and perfectly balanced. Imagine shredded cabbage and carrots forming a crunchy base, fresh apples adding juicy sweetness, dried cranberries delivering tart pops, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. The result is a side dish that works year-round: refreshing in summer, festive in fall, and comforting in winter. It’s simple to prepare, visually stunning, and versatile enough for barbecues, holiday feasts, or weekday dinners.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavor Harmony: Sweet apples, tart cranberries, and creamy dressing balance each other perfectly.
• Texture Play: Crisp cabbage and carrots contrast with chewy cranberries for every bite.
• Color Appeal: Bright pops of red, green, and orange make this a show-stopping side.
• Simplicity: Requires only basic chopping and mixing—ready in minutes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors develop even better after chilling.

Health Benefits

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw isn’t just delicious—it’s nourishing.

• Rich in Fiber: Cabbage and apples help with digestion and satiety.
• Antioxidants Galore: Cranberries and apples boost immunity and fight inflammation.
• Lower Calorie Side Dish: A lighter choice than creamy pasta or potato salads.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while apples add potassium.
• Healthy Dressing Options: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or add olive oil for heart-friendly fats.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), julienned or chopped
• ¾ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup thinly sliced green onions
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, toasted for extra flavor)

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for natural sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How To Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Making Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is simple and quick. Begin by shredding both green and red cabbage along with carrots, then transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Slice apples into thin matchsticks or small cubes, leaving the peel on for color and nutrients. Add apples, dried cranberries, green onions, and nuts (if using) to the bowl. In a separate dish, whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until creamy. Pour the dressing over the slaw, then toss gently to combine. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Shred green and red cabbage using a sharp knife, mandolin, or food processor. Shred carrots finely and place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Apples: Wash apples thoroughly, then slice into matchsticks or dice into bite-sized cubes. Keep the skins on for both nutrients and visual appeal. Add to the cabbage mixture.
3. Add Cranberries: Toss in dried cranberries. Their tartness and chewy texture add a delightful surprise in every bite.
4. Optional Nuts: If desired, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts. Toasting them beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth.
5. Mix in Green Onions: Slice green onions thinly and scatter them into the slaw for a mild oniony freshness.
6. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust—add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
7. Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Using salad tongs, gently toss until the vegetables are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, which can soften the crunch.
8. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly tenderize while maintaining crispness.
9. Serve and Garnish: Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra cranberries, apple slices, or a sprinkle of parsley for presentation. Serve chilled alongside roasted meats, sandwiches, or festive mains.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)

Nutrition Information (per serving, 8 servings)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg

Serving with Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

This coleslaw is best served chilled, making it refreshing and vibrant. It pairs beautifully with summer barbecues, fall harvest meals, or holiday turkey spreads. Serve in a large bowl for family-style gatherings, or plate individually for a refined touch. It’s perfect next to pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. For festive occasions, garnish with fresh apple slices or sprinkle with extra cranberries. Whether casual or celebratory, Apple Cranberry Coleslaw adds color, crunch, and a burst of fresh flavor to any table.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Make It Lighter: Replace half or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt.
• Go Vegan: Use vegan mayo and maple syrup instead of honey.
• Fruit Variations: Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds, raisins, or dried cherries.
• Nut-Free: Skip nuts if serving those with allergies.
• Storage Tip: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container up to 3 days.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw proves that a side dish can be both stunning and nourishing. With its crisp vegetables, juicy apples, tart cranberries, and creamy dressing, it’s a recipe that brings balance, freshness, and joy to the table. Whether you’re preparing for a casual picnic or a holiday feast, this dish adapts seamlessly and always earns compliments.

It’s colorful, healthy, and irresistibly delicious—a recipe you’ll want to save, share, and serve again and again.