This apple coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw. The crispness of cabbage and carrots pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart apples. It's a delightful side dish that adds a burst of flavor and crunch to any meal.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, but you may need to pick up a few items. Apple cider vinegar is a key ingredient that adds a tangy flavor to the dressing. If you don't have granny smith apples, you can use any variety of apples you prefer. Make sure to get fresh cabbage and carrots for the best texture.

Ingredients for Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Cabbage: Provides a crunchy base for the coleslaw.
Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
Apples: Brings a sweet and tart flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy dressing that binds the salad together.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
Honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the cabbage for this apple coleslaw, consider using a mandoline slicer for uniform and finely shredded pieces. This ensures even coating of the dressing and a more appealing texture. Additionally, to prevent the apples from browning, toss them in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the mix. This not only preserves their color but also adds a subtle tang that complements the apple cider vinegar in the dressing.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
shredded cabbage - Substitute with shredded kale: Kale provides a similar crunch and nutritional profile, making it a great alternative.
shredded carrots - Substitute with shredded zucchini: Zucchini offers a similar texture and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
granny smith or your favorite variety diced apples - Substitute with diced pears: Pears have a similar sweetness and texture, adding a unique twist to the coleslaw.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with fewer calories and added protein.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a similar acidity and tang, making it a suitable replacement.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness with a slightly different flavor, making it a good alternative.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- To store your apple coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep the cabbage crisp and the dressing fresh.
- Place the container in the refrigerator. Your coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- If you want to prepare the coleslaw in advance, keep the dressing separate from the vegetables. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.
- For freezing, note that mayonnaise-based dressings do not freeze well. The mayonnaise can separate and become watery upon thawing.
- If you must freeze, consider using a vinegar-based dressing instead. This will hold up better in the freezer.
- To freeze, place the coleslaw mixture (without the dressing) in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date. Your coleslaw can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- When ready to use, thaw the coleslaw in the refrigerator overnight. Add the dressing just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Always give the coleslaw a good stir after thawing to redistribute any moisture that may have separated.
How to Reheat Leftovers
First and foremost, it's important to note that apple coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh and chilled. However, if you must reheat it, follow these steps to maintain its texture and flavor as much as possible.
Microwave Method:
- Place the leftover apple coleslaw in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval to ensure even heating.
- Be cautious not to overheat, as the cabbage and apples can become soggy.
Stovetop Method:
- Transfer the apple coleslaw to a non-stick skillet or saucepan.
- Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to distribute heat evenly.
- Warm until the coleslaw is just heated through, being careful not to overcook the vegetables.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the apple coleslaw evenly in an oven-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
Room Temperature Method:
- If you prefer not to heat the apple coleslaw, you can simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- This method helps to take the chill off without compromising the crispness of the cabbage and carrots.
Pro Tip:
- To refresh the flavors, consider adding a small splash of apple cider vinegar or a drizzle of honey before serving.
- A quick toss with a fork can help redistribute the dressing and bring back some of the original zest.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Large mixing bowl: To combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and diced apples.
Small bowl: For whisking together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk: To mix the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Chef's knife: To dice the apples into small, even pieces.
Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for cutting the apples.
Measuring cups: To measure out the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and diced apples accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper precisely.
Spatula or large spoon: To toss the coleslaw mixture and ensure the dressing coats the ingredients evenly.
Refrigerator: To chill the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-shredded vegetables: Use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots from the store to save time on preparation.
Quick apple prep: Opt for an apple corer and slicer to quickly dice your apples.
Ready-made dressing: Consider using a store-bought coleslaw dressing if you're in a hurry.
Batch prep: Prepare a larger batch of the dressing and store it in the fridge for future use.
Chill faster: Place the coleslaw in the freezer for 10 minutes instead of the fridge for 30 minutes to chill it quickly.

Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Shredded Cabbage
- 1 cup Shredded Carrots
- 1 cup Diced Apples Granny Smith or your favorite variety
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and diced apples.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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