Apple Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that perfectly balances crisp freshness and tangy sweetness, Apple Coleslaw is about to win a permanent spot at your table. With snappy green and red cabbage, crunchy carrots, juicy matchsticks of apple, and a vibrant, creamy dressing, this coleslaw absolutely zings with color and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a lunch, or simply want to add some extra texture to everyday meals, this super easy Apple Coleslaw will surprise you. Trust me, it goes with just about anything—and always disappears fast!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Apple Coleslaw shine is its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays its part. From the bold bite of red onion to the bright pop of apple, every spoonful brings a little magic. Let’s break down the key players that make this slaw so irresistible:

• Green cabbage: Provides crunch and a refreshing, mild flavor that’s the backbone of any slaw.
• Red cabbage: Gives gorgeous color and a slightly peppery taste for visual appeal and extra snap.
• Apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Brings juicy sweetness and a little tartness—choose a crisp variety for best texture.
• Carrots: Introduce a gentle sweetness and more crunch plus a pop of vivid orange.
• Red onion: Offers sharpness and color, making each bite lively (slice super thin for mellow flavor).
• Mayonnaise: Keeps the dressing creamy and decadent, without feeling heavy.
• Apple cider vinegar: Lifts the flavors, adding zing and balancing richness with a mild tang.
• Honey or maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, rounding out the acidity without overpowering.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a layer of gentle heat and complexity to the dressing.
• Salt: Wakes up all the flavors and melds the ingredients together.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and a subtle kick right at the end.

How to Make Apple Coleslaw

Step 1: Prep the Veggies and Apple

Start by shredding both types of cabbage and carrots, then thinly slice the red onion. Grab your apple and cut it into matchsticks or thin slices—either way, you want those sweet-tart bites in every forkful. Prepping these ingredients ahead ensures your Apple Coleslaw is crunchy and not soggy!

Step 2: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, apple, carrots, and onion. Mixing the veggies together before adding the dressing helps distribute the different flavors and textures evenly.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing turns smooth, glossy, and slightly thick—this step ensures the flavors meld beautifully and coat the slaw just right.

Step 4: Dress and Chill

Pour the creamy dressing right over your colorful cabbage mixture. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure every little bit is coated. Cover and chill the Apple Coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to let all those zesty, sweet, and tangy flavors marry together. It’ll taste even better the longer it sits!

How to Serve Apple Coleslaw

Garnishes

Sprinkle on some chopped toasted pecans for a nutty crunch or dried cranberries for pops of tart sweetness. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill also bring a lovely green finish and fresh aroma to your Apple Coleslaw.

Side Dishes

This slaw is a dream alongside pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or fish tacos—the creamy tangy crunch cuts through richness and brightens every bite. Don’t forget to try it with veggie burgers or as part of a picnic spread of salads and chips.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop Apple Coleslaw into lettuce cups for a fun, finger-friendly appetizer, or stack it generously on burgers and sliders. Use it as a topping for tacos, pulled meats, or even stuff it into a pita for a refreshing, plant-forward lunch. Presentation is half the fun with all that color!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Apple Coleslaw tastes fresh for up to three days. The veggies remain crisp, and the flavors deepen as everything sits together—so you’ll love going back for leftovers!

Freezing

While freezing isn’t recommended (the cabbage and apples turn watery and soft after thawing), you can make the dressing ahead and keep it chilled separately. When ready to serve, toss with freshly chopped veggies for best results.

Reheating

Apple Coleslaw is a chill-only affair! There’s no need to reheat—simply give it a quick stir and enjoy straight from the fridge. If some liquid collects at the bottom, just drain it gently before serving again for optimal texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Side Dish

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are favorites for their crisp texture and sweet-tart balance, feel free to use Pink Lady, Fuji, or even Gala. Just aim for apples that stay firm once cut.

Is it possible to make Apple Coleslaw vegan?

Yes, just swap in your favorite vegan mayonnaise and use maple syrup instead of honey. The rest of the recipe naturally fits a plant-based approach, so everyone can dig in!

How do I keep the apple from browning?

If you’re prepping ahead, toss your sliced apple with a little lemon juice before adding it to the slaw. The acid helps keep it vibrant and prevents oxidation, ensuring your Apple Coleslaw looks as gorgeous as it tastes.

Can I make Apple Coleslaw in advance for a party?

Definitely! This slaw actually gets better after a few hours in the fridge, making it party perfect. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh everything, and add any crunchy nuts or herbs right before eating to keep their texture intact.

What’s the best way to shred cabbage for Apple Coleslaw?

You can use a chef’s knife, a mandoline slicer, or even a food processor with a shredding blade. The key is to aim for thin, uniform shreds so the textures blend together well in each bite.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Apple Coleslaw and see just how quickly it disappears from your table. With every forkful bringing juicy sweetness, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing together, it’s the perfect side for any meal or gathering. Mix up a batch and share it with friends and family—you’re in for a fresh, colorful treat!

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