If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch, this Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is the perfect choice. This coleslaw features a colorful blend of crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, tart cranberries, and nutty walnuts, all tossed together in a creamy honey-ginger dressing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a light side dish, this recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional coleslaw. With the added flavors of fresh fruit and a touch of ginger spice, it’s a dish that’s sure to stand out at any gathering!
Ingredients:
Coleslaw:
- 14-ounce bag of 3-color coleslaw mix (or a combination of green, purple cabbage, and carrots)
- 1 large apple, chopped (choose a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, if preferred)
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ teaspoon dried ground ginger
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coleslaw Base:
In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together the tri-color coleslaw mix, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Toss the ingredients gently to distribute everything evenly. - Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and ground ginger. The honey adds sweetness, while the ginger gives a subtle, warm spice to balance the flavors. - Combine the Coleslaw and Dressing:
Pour the honey-ginger dressing over the coleslaw mixture. Using a large spoon or tongs, toss the coleslaw until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Make sure to distribute the dressing evenly for a creamy, flavorful result. - Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. Chilling the coleslaw also helps the ingredients soften slightly while keeping their crunch. Before serving, give the coleslaw one final toss and garnish with additional green onions or walnuts, if desired.
Conclusion:
This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Honey-Ginger Dressing is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors that make it a standout side dish for any occasion. The crisp texture of cabbage pairs beautifully with the freshness of apples, the chewiness of cranberries, and the crunch of walnuts. The creamy dressing, with its hint of ginger and sweetness from honey, ties everything together in a delicious harmony. Whether you’re looking to elevate your next barbecue or want a unique, healthy side, this coleslaw is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!