A refreshing, crisp, and vibrant side dish combining tender coleslaw mix, juicy apples, and tangy dried cranberries—all brought together with a creamy apple cider vinegar dressing. This colorful slaw delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or easy weekday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is quick, bright, and endlessly versatile. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand and comes together in just minutes. The apples and cranberries add natural sweetness, the vinegar adds zip, and the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. Once chilled, the flavors deepen, making it even better for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 bag coleslaw mix (approximately 14 ounces)
• 2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced or diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1–2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Combine the coleslaw mix, apples, dried cranberries, and red onion in a large bowl. Toss gently to keep the apples intact.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to crisp up.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 side-dish servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Replace apples with pears or seedless grapes for a seasonal twist.
• Add toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried apricots.
• For a lighter version, use part mayonnaise and part Greek yogurt.
• Add celery or extra shredded carrots for more texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If preparing in advance, toss the apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Give the slaw a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. This dish is not suitable for freezing, as the vegetables lose their crunch.

FAQs

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss the sliced apples with a small amount of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt adds tang and creaminess while lightening the dressing.

Can this coleslaw be made ahead of time?

Yes. Preparing it at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavor and texture.

What can I add for extra crunch?

Toasted nuts, celery, or additional carrots work beautifully.

How long does this coleslaw last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, white vinegar or rice vinegar works, though apple cider vinegar adds the best flavor.

What apples work best for this recipe?

Firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well in the dressing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as the mayonnaise used contains no dairy.

Can I leave out the onion?

Absolutely. You may omit it or replace it with thinly sliced green onions for a milder flavor.

What protein does this pair well with?

It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or fish, and works well inside sandwiches for added crunch.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing, colorful side dish that brings together crisp vegetables, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries in a creamy dressing. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it is a versatile recipe fit for gatherings, meal prep, or weeknight dinners. Enjoy its bright, lively taste any time of year.

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