Apple Cranberry & Almond Coleslaw

My Go-To Coleslaw: A Simple Recipe for Any Occasion

As a busy mom, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. This Apple Cranberry & Almond Coleslaw fits the bill perfectly. It's a vibrant, flavorful side dish that's perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or even a weeknight dinner. The best part? It's incredibly versatile – you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand.

The sweetness of the cranberries and apples balances beautifully with the tangy homemade dressing. The crunchy almonds add a satisfying textural element, and the shredded cabbage provides a refreshing base. The whole thing comes together in minutes, which is a huge plus when you're short on time. I've found that using a good quality Greek yogurt, like Fage, is key to getting the right consistency for the dressing. Other brands can be a bit too thin, resulting in a less satisfying coleslaw.

I usually make a big batch of this coleslaw and store the leftovers in the refrigerator. It's even better the next day, as the flavors have a chance to meld together. I love that this recipe allows for creativity. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji would be delicious!), add some dried cherries or pecans for a twist, or even incorporate some toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I'm confident it'll become one of your favorites, too. It's the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, and it's always a hit with everyone who tries it. It's easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a special occasion. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Tips and Variations:

Apple Choices: While I love Gala apples, feel free to experiment! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even Granny Smith would all add their unique flavor profiles.

Nut Variations: Almonds are classic, but pecans, walnuts, or even toasted sunflower seeds would make delightful substitutions.

Dried Fruit Fun: Dried cherries, apricots, or even a mix of berries could add a burst of different flavors.

Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes would add a subtle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.

Herbs and Spices: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley could elevate the flavor profile.

Make it Ahead: This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually improve as it sits!

Serving Suggestions: This coleslaw is a versatile side dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for tacos or burgers. It's also a great addition to sandwiches or wraps.

Dietary Adjustments: For a vegan version, simply substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives. Ensure your honey is replaced with a suitable alternative like agave or maple syrup.

This Apple Cranberry & Almond Coleslaw is more than just a side dish; it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen. So grab your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Step-by-step

• In a mixing bowl whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey and apple cider vinegar until smooth, while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
• In a large bowl toss together cabbage, carrots, apples, green onions, almonds and cranberries.
• Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss to evenly coat.
• Serve immediately for best results.