Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

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A bright, crunchy coleslaw that feels like autumn in a bowl, this Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw pairs tart-sweet fruit with creamy dressing for an irresistible side. It comes together quickly and makes a colorful addition to backyard gatherings, lunchboxes, or a cozy weeknight meal. For an extra touch of decadence try serving alongside a drizzle of 2-ingredient apple caramel sauce or spoon it onto sandwiches for a sweet crunch. Simple swaps keep it flexible and family friendly.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This salad is a visual showstopper with ruby dried cranberries, glossy apple chunks, and a rainbow coleslaw base. It balances sweet, tart, and savory elements so each bite feels layered and interesting. The walnuts add hearty crunch while green onions bring a mild bite that brightens the mix. The dressing is creamy but lightened by yogurt for a pleasant tang that lets the fruit sing. It is kid friendly yet grown up enough for holiday tables and pairs well with grilled mains or vegetarian platters. If you love contrasts in texture try it alongside an inspired side like the apple cinnamon pretzel salad for a playful spread.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a crisp first impression from the coleslaw blend followed by juicy apple pockets and chewy pops of cranberry. Toasty walnuts introduce weight and an earthy note that prevents the salad from feeling overly sweet. The dressing threads honey and ground ginger through the salad so the flavors feel cohesive rather than separated. Cold refrigeration before serving lets the flavors mellow and mingle, making each bite more harmonious. This combination is familiar yet refined, an easy way to elevate a simple side.

Ingredients

14 oz (396 g) 3-color coleslaw mix
1 large apple, chopped
½ cup (75 g) dried cranberries
4 green onions, sliced
½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts
¾ cup (180 ml) mayonnaise
¾ cup (180 ml) plain yogurt or sour cream
¼ cup (60 ml) honey
¾ tsp dried ground ginger
½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise (optional lighter version)
½ cup (120 ml) plain yogurt (optional lighter version)
3 tbsps honey (optional lighter version)
½ tsp ground ginger (optional lighter version)

Step by Step Instructions

Prep Base: Combine coleslaw blend in a large mixing bowl, dicing crisp apples and scattering dried cranberries throughout the mixture for vibrant color and tangy sweetness.
Add Texture: Integrate chopped walnuts and finely sliced green onions, creating a multi-dimensional crunch that elevates the salad sensory experience.
Craft Dressing: Whisk mayonnaise, yogurt, honey, and ground ginger in a separate bowl until the sauce transforms into a smooth, well integrated emulsion with balanced flavor notes.
Dress and Blend: Pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw, gently folding to ensure every ingredient receives an even, luxurious coating without compromising delicate textures.
Final Touch: Season with strategic pinches of salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to harmonize the salad complex flavor profile, then refrigerate briefly to allow ingredients to meld and intensify.

Tips for Best Results

Choose a crisp apple variety such as Honeycrisp or Fuji to maintain texture and bright flavor. If you prefer more tang, swap plain yogurt for sour cream in part or all of the yogurt measurement. Lightly toast walnuts in a dry skillet for two to three minutes until fragrant to amplify their aroma. Keep the dressing cold until the last moment so the salad stays crisp and does not weep. When serving at a picnic, dress the slaw shortly before arriving to preserve crunch.

Storage and Make Ahead

You can prepare components in advance by chopping apples and storing them in a little lemon water to prevent browning. Keep dressing refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and toss with the coleslaw mix a few hours before serving. Once dressed, the salad is best within one to two days for optimal texture, though flavors will remain pleasant for up to three days. If making ahead for a party, store nuts separately and add just before serving to preserve crunch.

Final Thought

This Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw is a simple way to bring seasonal flavor and lively texture to any meal. It photographs beautifully for social sharing and tastes like a fresh, homemade treat. Whether made light or indulgent, it’s a crowd pleasing side you will reach for again and again.