This colorful cranberry coleslaw is a perfect side dish for the holidays! With crunchy cabbage, sweet cranberries, and a tangy dressing, it’s both tasty and refreshing.
It adds a lovely pop of color to your table! I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix everything together, and you have a dish that will impress your guests. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: I like to mix green and purple cabbage for a nice color contrast. If you can’t find purple cabbage, use more green cabbage or try Napa cabbage for a softer texture.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and a pop of flavor. Try using chopped apples or raisins if you prefer a different twist or want a fresh fruit option.
Sunflower Seeds: They give a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds or omit them completely for a simpler version.
Mayonnaise: I prefer using regular mayo for creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a great healthier substitute that adds protein, too. You can also use vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Honey/Maple Syrup: I love the touch of sweetness they add. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. Agave syrup is another good alternative!
How Do I Get My Coleslaw to Taste Amazing?
To make this coleslaw really pop, take a moment to taste the dressing before mixing. Adjust the sweetness, acidity, or seasoning based on your preferences. For the best flavor, let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives the cabbage and cranberries time to soak up the dressing!
- Combine shredded vegetables first, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Whisk the dressing until smooth, then pour it over the veggies and mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Fresh Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe for Holidays
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (lightly toasted if preferred)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill for optimal flavor, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s great for holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by getting a large mixing bowl and adding all your shredded ingredients: green cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped celery, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions. Stir well to combine everything so you have a colorful mix ready.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, add the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness if you like it a little sweeter!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture in the big bowl. Toss everything together really well so that all the veggies and fruits are coated with the delicious dressing. It should look vibrant and colorful!
4. Season It Up:
Now add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix again so that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to soak in and develop, making the coleslaw even tastier!
6. Final Touch Before Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw a quick toss to ensure everything is mixed well again. Serve it up in a pretty bowl and enjoy this fresh, colorful, and festive dish at your holiday gathering!
FAQ for Fresh Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried Cranberries?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cranberries! However, fresh cranberries are quite tart, so consider tossing them with a little sugar or honey before adding them to the coleslaw to balance the flavors.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this coleslaw dairy-free, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo. Additionally, you can use plain coconut yogurt for a creamy texture without any dairy!
Can I Prepare This Coleslaw in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance! Just make sure to keep it well-covered in the fridge. It might taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw will stay fresh for about 3 days. If the cabbage softens too much for your liking, add a few fresh, shredded veggies to revitalize it before serving again!
