Introduction
Looking for a refreshing, crunchy side dish that’s bursting with flavor? This Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty goodness. With crisp apples, chewy dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy ginger-infused dressing, this coleslaw is a delightful twist on the classic. It’s a fantastic dish to serve at a BBQ, potluck, or holiday gathering, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light, flavorful side for any meal.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves adding a fruity and nutty element to their dishes. The combination of apples and cranberries brings a sweet-tart flavor that complements the creamy dressing, while the walnuts add an irresistible crunch. The hint of ginger in the dressing makes it uniquely flavorful and refreshing. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes, making it a great last-minute side for busy days or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 (14-ounce) bag 3-color coleslaw mix
- 1 large apple, chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
Directions
1. Prepare the Coleslaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. The blend of colors and textures from the coleslaw, apples, and cranberries will create a vibrant, eye-catching dish.
2. Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined. The creamy texture of the dressing combined with the warmth of the ginger and sweetness of the honey adds depth and flavor to the salad.
3. Combine
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. The creamy dressing will help bind all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
4. Optional Variation
For a lighter, less creamy coleslaw, reduce the dressing ingredients to ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup plain yogurt, 3 tablespoons honey, and ½ teaspoon ginger. This variation allows the fresh flavors of the apple and cranberries to shine through even more.
5. Chill and Serve
Transfer the coleslaw to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more cohesive taste. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl for the coleslaw
- Small bowl for the dressing
- Whisk for combining the dressing
- Knife for chopping the apple, walnuts, and green onions
Tips and Shortcuts
- Pre-Packaged Coleslaw: Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix cuts down on prep time, making this dish incredibly quick and easy to prepare. You can also make your own mix using shredded cabbage and carrots if you prefer.
- Apple Tip: For the best texture, use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. They add the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch to the coleslaw.
- Nut Allergy? You can omit the walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Fruit Substitutes: If you don’t have cranberries, feel free to use raisins, dried cherries, or even fresh grapes for a similar sweet-tart flavor.
- Nut Variations: Try swapping the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch. If you prefer a sweeter crunch, use candied nuts.
- Dressing Variation: For a tangier dressing, replace the plain yogurt with Greek yogurt or add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Stir well before serving again, as the dressing may settle. This coleslaw can be enjoyed cold and retains its crunch for a couple of days, making it ideal for meal prep.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or BBQ ribs for a delicious contrast in flavors. It’s also fantastic as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches or fish tacos.
For drinks, pair it with a refreshing apple cider or a chilled Riesling to complement the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw and dressing up to a day in advance. Just keep them separate and toss them together about 30 minutes before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of yogurt?
A: Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt for a tangier taste, or you can use sour cream as a replacement if you prefer.
Q: How do I prevent the apples from browning?
A: If you’re making this coleslaw ahead of time, toss the chopped apples with a little lemon juice before adding them to the mix. This will prevent them from browning and keep them looking fresh.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Delight in this Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts—fresh, tangy, and crunchy, perfect for any meal or as a refreshing side dish!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving