Description
This Apple Coleslaw recipe is a refreshing and crunchy salad that combines the crispness of green and red cabbage with sweet, juicy apples and a tangy, creamy dressing. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch, this coleslaw offers a balanced flavor with a hint of sweetness and nuttiness from optional pecans or walnuts.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fruits
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded (optional)
- 2 medium apples, julienned (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Nuts
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and fruits: Finely shred the green cabbage and red cabbage (if using). Julienne the apples and shred the carrot. Thinly slice the red onion, if including this optional ingredient.
- Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded green and red cabbage, julienned apples, shredded carrot, sliced red onion, and chopped pecans or walnuts if using. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
- Toss the coleslaw: Gently toss all ingredients together until the cabbage and apple mixture is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and serve: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a side dish.
Notes
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for a nice flavor balance.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Adding nuts boosts texture and nutritional value but can be omitted for allergies.
- The coleslaw can be prepared a few hours ahead; toss again before serving.
- Adjust sweetness by varying honey or maple syrup amount to taste.
