Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad – Crisp, Creamy & Bursting with Fresh Flavor

Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad – Crisp, Creamy & Bursting with Fresh Flavor

This Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic slaw — crisp cabbage and carrots tossed with crunchy apples, all coated in a creamy, zesty dressing that’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It’s light yet satisfying, and it complements everything from grilled meats and BBQ to sandwiches and holiday roasts. The combination of tart apples, tangy vinegar, and a hint of honey creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing a summer picnic or a cozy autumn dinner, this coleslaw brings color, crunch, and freshness to your table.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Servings: 6 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw

4 cups shredded green cabbage or coleslaw mix
1 cup shredded red cabbage optional, for color
1 large apple Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji, julienned or thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
¼ cup sliced green onions or red onions
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley optional

For the Sweet & Tangy Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
¼ cup chopped toasted pecans or almonds

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for dressing
Whisk
Cutting board and knife
Vegetable peeler or mandoline (optional)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, apple slices, green onions, and parsley.
Toss lightly to mix everything evenly.
💡 Pro Tip: To keep apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing with the veggies.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust — more vinegar for tang, more honey for sweetness.

Step 3: Combine & Toss

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Add raisins or nuts if desired for extra sweetness and crunch.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with a few apple slices or parsley leaves just before serving for a fresh presentation.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Do Not Freeze: The creamy dressing and apples don’t freeze well.

Tip: Stir before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

🥄 Variations

No-Mayo Version: Use olive oil and Greek yogurt for a lighter, vinaigrette-style slaw.

Apple Cranberry Slaw: Add dried cranberries for a festive touch.

Asian-Inspired: Swap honey for rice vinegar and add sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds.

Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing: Stir in 1 teaspoon poppy seeds for texture.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing.

Coleslaw with Pineapple: Add crushed pineapple for a tropical note.

Savory Bacon Twist: Mix in crumbled bacon for smoky contrast.

Kale & Apple Slaw: Substitute some cabbage with chopped kale for a nutrient boost.

Blue Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled blue cheese for a tangy, rich version.

Herb Infusion: Toss in dill, basil, or tarragon for a garden-fresh finish.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — it actually tastes better after chilling for an hour or two.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Absolutely — it’s a great time-saver.

Which apple works best?
Crisp and slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are perfect.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use vegan mayo or olive oil instead of yogurt.

How do I keep the apples from browning?
Toss them with a little lemon juice immediately after slicing.

Can I use red apples?
Yes — they add beautiful color and sweetness.

Can I use vinegar other than apple cider?
White wine or rice vinegar works fine too.

Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey or skip the raisins.

Can I serve it warm?
This salad is best chilled or at room temperature for crunch.

What does it pair with?
It’s amazing with BBQ, pulled pork sandwiches, fried chicken, or grilled fish.

🏁 Conclusion

This Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad is a refreshing, flavorful side that’s as easy as it is delicious. With the crisp crunch of cabbage and apples, the creaminess of the dressing, and that perfect balance of sweet and tangy, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Whether it’s summer picnics, fall feasts, or holiday dinners, this coleslaw adds a pop of color, freshness, and bright flavor to your menu.