Coleslaw has long been a staple side dish at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its crisp texture and tangy flavor make it a perfect complement to a variety of meals. However, if you’re looking to elevate this classic dish, try incorporating a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors with an Apple Cranberry Coleslaw. This unique twist on traditional coleslaw features a medley of fresh, colorful ingredients and a creamy, ginger-infused dressing that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients
Coleslaw:
- 14-ounce 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 teaspoon dried, ground ginger
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw Mix
Start by emptying the 14-ounce bag of 3-color coleslaw mix into a large mixing bowl. This mix typically includes shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots, providing a vibrant and crunchy base for the salad.
- Step 2: Add the Fruit and Nuts
Chop one large apple into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added color and nutrition. Add the chopped apple to the coleslaw mix. Next, toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries, which will add a delightful tartness and chewy texture. Finally, include ½ cup of chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch and a hint of earthiness.
- Step 3: Slice the Green Onions
Slice four green onions thinly and add them to the bowl. The green onions will provide a mild, yet sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
- Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of mayo and ¾ cup of plain yogurt or sour cream. The combination of mayo and yogurt (or sour cream) creates a creamy and slightly tangy dressing. Add ¼ cup of honey to the mix for sweetness. Finally, stir in ¾ teaspoon of dried, ground ginger. The ginger will give the dressing a subtle warmth and spice that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Step 5: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss everything together until well coated. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the dressing thoroughly covers the salad. Wrap the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to reach the perfect temperature.
Conclusion
Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a delightful variation on the classic recipe, bringing together the crispness of cabbage, the sweetness of apples and honey, the tartness of cranberries, and the crunch of walnuts. The ginger-infused dressing adds an unexpected depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a holiday feast, or as a side for a weeknight dinner, this coleslaw is sure to impress. Enjoy the refreshing taste and the colorful presentation of this unique salad!