Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad combines crisp cabbage with the fresh bite of Granny Smith apples and a zesty dressing. It’s a vibrant, refreshing side dish perfect for BBQs, lunch, or anytime you want a tasty crunch with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
- 1 Granny Smith apple, sliced into thin matchsticks
- ½ cup diced celery
- 5 green onions, finely sliced
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sliced Granny Smith apple, diced celery, and finely sliced green onions.
- Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the mayonnaise until smooth.
- Step 4: Pour the warm dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to chill.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative or homemade vegan mayo.
- Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor variety.
- Try adding pineapple chunks for a tropical twist to the salad.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not reheat well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best to prepare the coleslaw at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?
You can use vegan mayo or a dairy-free alternative if you want to make this salad vegan or reduce dairy. Some prefer Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
PrintSweet and Tangy Apple Coleslaw Salad Recipe
A refreshing sweet and tangy apple coleslaw salad that combines crisp coleslaw mix with Granny Smith apples, celery, and green onions, tossed in a warm, flavorful apple cider vinegar dressing with a creamy mayo finish. Perfect as a side dish for BBQs or quick lunches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
- 1 Granny Smith apple, sliced into thin matchsticks
- ½ cup diced celery
- 5 green onions, finely sliced
For the Dressing
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced Granny Smith apple, diced celery, and finely sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix.
- Prepare Dressing Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer while stirring continuously, making sure the sugar fully dissolves.
- Add Mayonnaise: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the mayonnaise until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the warm dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat all components evenly with the dressing.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill before serving.
Notes
- To make this dressing vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo or a homemade vegan mayo alternative.
- This coleslaw pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes or can be enjoyed as a refreshing addition to sandwiches.
Keywords: apple coleslaw, sweet and tangy salad, coleslaw recipe, fall salad, gluten-free salad, BBQ side dish
