Description
This Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish combining finely shredded green and red cabbage with sweet, crisp apples and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a light lunch accompaniment, it balances sweet and savory flavors with a hint of crunch from nuts and a slight zing from Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fruit
- 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 apples: Finely shred the green cabbage and red cabbage (if using). Julienne the apples—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended for a crisp, tart-sweet flavor. Shred the carrot and thinly slice the red onion if you are including them.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, julienned apples, shredded carrot, and sliced red onion. Add the chopped pecans or walnuts if you desire extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Toss the coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- Chill before serving: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a fresh, crunchy side dish with your meal.
Notes
- You can omit the red cabbage, red onion, or nuts if you prefer a simpler coleslaw.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup according to taste.
- Prepare the coleslaw a few hours ahead to develop better flavor, but dress it just before serving if you prefer crunchier apples.
- Use fresh, crisp apples for best texture and flavor.
