Apple Slaw is a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw! It combines crunchy apples, crisp cabbage, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together. Perfect as a side dish!
It’s so easy to make, I often whip it up in a flash! Tossing everything together makes me feel like a kitchen superstar. Just watch out for those sneaky apple bites; they disappear fast! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green and red cabbage provide a nice mix of crunch and color. If you can’t find red cabbage, you can use more green cabbage or a mix of other greens like kale for different textures.
Apple: I love using Fuji apples for their sweetness, but Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith works well too. If you’re not an apple fan, you could substitute with pears for a similar crunch and flavor.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is usually the base for the dressing, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute—just whisk in a bit of water to thin it out.
Sliced Almonds: If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds give that crunch without the nuts. These options add a bit of toasty flavor too!
How Do I Make Sure My Apple Slaw Stays Crunchy?
Keeping your slaw crunchy is all about timing and how you mix the ingredients. Here are a few tips:
- Always mix the dressing just before serving. If you mix it too early, the cabbage will wilt.
- Slice the apples right before serving to prevent browning. Toss them in a tiny bit of lemon juice to keep their color if you need to cut them in advance.
- Use cold ingredients. Chill your cabbage and carrots in the fridge before mixing. It helps maintain that crispiness!
How to Make Delicious Apple Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1 medium apple (such as Fuji or Gala), thinly sliced or julienned
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Apple Slaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That gives the flavors time to blend beautifully, resulting in a crunchy and tasty side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies and Apple:
Start by shredding your green and red cabbage and your carrot. You can use a box grater or a food processor to make this easier! Then, thinly slice or julienne the apple. Place all these ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing is where the magic happens!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture in the large bowl. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything together, making sure all the veggies are well coated with the dressing.
4. Add Crunch:
Gently fold in the sliced almonds for some added crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a delicious contrast to the softness of the cabbage and apple!
5. Season and Garnish:
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also add some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor, if you like!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the slaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those yummy flavors to meld. When ready to serve, give it a good toss, and enjoy this refreshing dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Dressing?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice instead of mayonnaise. You might also try a vinaigrette for a tangy twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Slaw?
Yes! Feel free to customize your slaw by adding ingredients like raisins for sweetness, chopped celery for more crunch, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor!
How Can I Keep My Apple from Browning?
To prevent the apple from browning, you can toss the slices in a little bit of lemon juice right after slicing them. This helps maintain their fresh look and crispiness in the slaw!
