Imagine this: it’s a warm afternoon, and you’re looking for the perfect dish to brighten up your meal. You want something crunchy, sweet, and savory all at once. Enter Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing. This refreshing dish combines the crispness of fresh vegetables and apples with a creamy, tangy dressing that’s as delicious as it is healthy. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, family dinner, or a quick weekday lunch, this slaw is sure to become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing
This recipe isn’t just your average coleslaw—it’s a flavor-packed and wholesome twist on a classic. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- A Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of honey and cranberries pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the Greek yogurt and apple cider vinegar.
- Crunchy and Fresh: The crisp textures of cabbage, apples, and almonds make every bite satisfying.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fresh vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich yogurt, this dish is as nourishing as it is tasty.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this slaw is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Dressing | Plain Greek yogurt | ¾ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup | |
| Honey | ¼ cup | |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp | |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Freshly cracked black pepper | To taste | |
| Coleslaw | Shredded cabbage | 1 small (6–7 cups) |
| Matchstick carrots | 1½ cups | |
| Gala apples, sliced thin | 2 large (about 3 cups) | |
| Sliced green onions | ½ cup | |
| Sliced almonds | ¾ cup | |
| Dried cranberries | ¾ cup | |
| Crumbled feta, blue, or cheddar cheese (optional) | ¾ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
- Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust the balance of sweetness and acidity by adding more honey or vinegar, if needed.
- Set the dressing aside to let the flavors blend while you prepare the slaw.
2. Shred and Slice the Vegetables
- Shred the Cabbage: Use a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor to finely shred the cabbage. Transfer it to a large salad bowl.
- Slice the Apples: Cut the apples into thin, matchstick-like slices. Aim for uniformity to match the size of the carrots. Add them to the cabbage.
- Prepare the Carrots: Use pre-shredded carrots or cut them into matchsticks for added crunch.
3. Mix the Slaw Ingredients
- To the bowl of cabbage, apples, and carrots, add the sliced green onions, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Toss the mixture gently to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the slaw.
4. Combine the Dressing and Slaw
- Pour the prepared honey yogurt dressing over the slaw mixture.
- Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring all the vegetables and mix-ins are coated with the dressing.
5. Add Cheese and Serve
- If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the crumbled feta, blue cheese, or sharp cheddar over the slaw and give it a final toss.
- Serve the slaw immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Pro Tips for the Best Crunchy Apple Slaw
- Choose the Right Apples: Gala apples are perfect for their natural sweetness and firm texture, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well.
- Prevent Browning: Toss apple slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the slaw to keep them looking fresh.
- Customize the Dressing: Prefer a tangier dressing? Add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar. For a sweeter touch, add more honey.
- Toast the Almonds: Lightly toasting the sliced almonds adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Make Ahead: Prep the dressing and shred the vegetables ahead of time, but combine them just before serving to keep the slaw fresh and crisp.
Health Benefits of Crunchy Apple Slaw
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that boost your health in multiple ways:
1. High in Fiber
The cabbage, carrots, and apples provide ample dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
2. Rich in Vitamins
Cabbage is a great source of vitamins C and K, while carrots and apples provide additional vitamin A and antioxidants.
3. Protein-Packed
The Greek yogurt and optional cheese add a dose of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
4. Heart-Healthy Fats
Almonds provide healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.
5. Low in Sugar
Using honey and dried cranberries for sweetness keeps the recipe naturally sweet without refined sugars.
Creative Variations to Try
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own:
1. Spicy Kick
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of Sriracha to the dressing for some heat.
2. Tropical Twist
- Replace cranberries with diced pineapple or mango for a tropical flair.
3. Vegan Option
- Use vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make the recipe completely plant-based.
4. Nut-Free
- Swap almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
5. Herbaceous Touch
- Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 calories |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the slaw crisp.
2. What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal for its mild flavor and crunch, but you can also use purple cabbage for a pop of color.
3. Can I substitute Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, use regular plain yogurt, but reduce the vinegar slightly to balance the thinner texture.
4. Is this slaw gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all store-bought ingredients, like mayonnaise, are certified gluten-free.
5. How long does it stay fresh?
This slaw is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss it again before serving.
6. Can I add meat for protein?
Absolutely! Add shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a protein boost.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
The Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, packing it for lunch, or enjoying it as a light dinner, this slaw is guaranteed to impress.
Ready to try this refreshing twist on a classic? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite variations and share your creation with family and friends—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time!
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Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Crunchy Apple Slaw with Honey Yogurt Dressing is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish perfect for any occasion. It combines the crispness of cabbage and apples with a creamy, tangy yogurt dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or a flavorful addition to a barbecue spread.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (Fage is recommended for its thickness)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 small cabbage, shredded (about 6–7 cups packed, or 16 oz chopped)
- 1½ cups matchstick carrots
- 2 large Gala apples, sliced into matchsticks (about 3 cups)
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- ¾ cup crumbled feta, blue cheese, or sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar, if needed.
2. Shred and Slice the Vegetables:
- Finely slice the cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor, and transfer it to a large salad bowl.
- Slice the apples into thin matchsticks, ensuring they’re uniform in size with the carrots. Add them to the bowl.
3. Mix the Slaw Ingredients:
- Add the shredded cabbage, matchstick carrots, sliced green onions, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
- Gently toss the mixture to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Combine the Dressing and Slaw:
- Pour the prepared honey yogurt dressing over the slaw mixture.
- Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together, ensuring the dressing coats all the vegetables and mix-ins.
5. Add Cheese and Serve:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shredded cheddar cheese over the slaw (if using).
- Toss the slaw lightly to incorporate the cheese.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables up to a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the slaw crisp.
- Cheese Options: Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor, while blue cheese provides a bold taste. Sharp cheddar is ideal for a milder option.
- Customizable Add-Ins: For extra crunch, try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For a sweeter touch, add fresh grapes or diced pineapple.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American