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| Apple Cranberry Coleslaw |
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw (Perfect Fall Slaw!)
Looking for a refreshing fall side dish that’s crunchy, colorful, and full of flavor? This simple apple cranberry coleslaw is just what you need. It blends crisp apples, dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and green onions in a creamy honey-ginger dressing. It's a fresh twist on a classic and a beautiful addition to any autumn menu.
Let’s be clear—salad season doesn’t end with summer! This easy side dish brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of old fashioned coleslaw and the cozy flavors of fall. Whether you're preparing it for a football tailgate, Thanksgiving, or a weekend dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
Shredded cabbage – One 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (or about 6 to 7 cups) is perfect, but you can also use fresh shredded cabbage.
Apple – One large chopped apple adds natural sweetness. Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith all work great in this apple cranberry coleslaw with mayonnaise.
Dried cranberries – Half a cup of dried cranberries bring chewy texture and tartness. For a twist, try dried cherries.
Walnuts – Chopped walnuts give this slaw its crunch. Pecans or almonds are excellent alternatives.
Green onions – Four sliced green onions add depth and balance the sweetness.
Dressing – A creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, honey, and a pinch of ground ginger gives this slaw its signature taste.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Toss to mix.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt), 1/4 cup honey, and 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the slaw ingredients and gently stir until evenly coated. You can serve it right away, but it tastes even better after 30 minutes in the fridge.
Optional Lighter Version
If you're following a lighter meal plan, this recipe can easily become apple cranberry coleslaw Weight Watchers friendly. Use light mayo, nonfat Greek yogurt, and reduce the honey slightly. You can also try it as an apple cranberry coleslaw no mayo version by using only Greek yogurt and honey.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
This coleslaw is ideal for prepping ahead. Mix all ingredients as directed and chill in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before serving. The texture stays crunchy, and the flavors meld beautifully.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.
Tasty Recipe Variations
Try using freshly shredded cabbage or broccoli slaw instead of the packaged mix for a different twist.
Swap in sliced pears in place of the apple for a unique fall flavor.
Use red onion instead of green, or omit it entirely if you prefer.
To make a vegetarian-friendly apple coleslaw with cranberries and pecans, simply skip the dairy in the dressing and use a vegan alternative.
Add a handful of crumbled feta, blue cheese, or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're planning a cozy Sunday supper or setting your Thanksgiving table, this old fashioned apple cranberry coleslaw adds just the right amount of sweet, tart, and crunch. It’s a gorgeous, seasonal side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, sandwiches, or even veggie burgers.
Once you try this homemade apple cranberry coleslaw recipe, it just might become your go-to for fall gatherings. Light, creamy, and colorful—it’s everything a perfect slaw should be!
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is the perfect way to mix things up for fall! Loaded with fresh apples, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and green onions, this coleslaw is crunchy, sweet, and so delicious!
Ingredients
- Coleslaw:
- 14 oz bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayo
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ tsp dried ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine coleslaw ingredients in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine dressing ingredients and mix well.
- Pour dressing over coleslaw and stir until evenly coated.
- For a less creamy coleslaw: use ½ cup mayo, ½ cup yogurt, 3 tbsp honey, and ½ tsp ginger.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cabbage in place of coleslaw mix.
- Substitute broccoli slaw for coleslaw.
- Add or substitute sliced pears.
- Use red onion instead of green, or omit onion altogether.
- Try dried cherries in place of cranberries.
- Use any apple variety: Granny Smith, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious.
- Add crumbled cheese like feta, goat, or blue cheese.
- Use any nuts you prefer or omit them completely.
Nutrition
Calories: 191 kcal • Carbohydrates: 16g • Protein: 2g • Fat: 14g • Saturated Fat: 2g • Fiber: 2g • Sugar: 13g
