Crisp Apple Walnut Coleslaw

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
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Looking for a refreshing twist on a classic side dish? This Crisp Apple Walnut Coleslaw is a vibrant mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and nutty walnuts, perfect for any season. It's a delightful blend of colors and flavors that will brighten up any meal.

Ingredients for Crisp Apple Walnut Coleslaw

Green cabbage forms the crunchy base of the coleslaw, offering a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients. Purple cabbage adds a pop of color and a slight peppery note, making the dish visually appealing. Apples bring sweetness and a crisp texture; choose a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. Walnuts add a nutty richness and a satisfying crunch. Green onions provide a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the dish. The mayonnaise acts as the creamy binder for the slaw, while apple cider vinegar adds tang and balances the sweetness. Honey sweetens the dressing naturally, and Dijon mustard offers a gentle kick of heat. Finally, salt and black pepper season the slaw perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • To prevent browning, slice the apples just before mixing them into the coleslaw or toss them in a little lemon juice.
  • If you prefer a less creamy slaw, reduce the mayonnaise slightly and increase the vinegar for a tangier profile.
  • For added flavor, toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan before chopping them up.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork chops, as the tangy and sweet flavors complement savory dishes beautifully. It's also a fantastic topping for pulled pork sandwiches or alongside your favorite barbecue dishes. For a lighter meal, serve it as a refreshing side to a hearty soup or stew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated, and give it a good toss before serving.
What can I use instead of walnuts for a nut-free option?
If you need to skip the walnuts, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite apple variety. Just keep in mind that tarter apples like Granny Smith will give a different flavor compared to sweeter ones like Fuji.

Crisp Apple Walnut Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab yourself a large mixing bowl. Combine the shredded green and purple cabbage with the sliced apples, chopped walnuts, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle toss with your hands to mix everything evenly. It's always fun to see those vibrant colors come together!

Next, in a smaller bowl, you'll want to whisk together your mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it's smooth and well-blended; this is the creamy dressing that will tie all those fresh ingredients together.

Pour the dressing over your cabbage mixture. Now, here's the fun part: get in there with a big spoon or tongs and toss it all until everything is well-coated. You want each bite to have a bit of every ingredient.

Once it's all mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully, making the slaw even more delicious.

Finally, serve it up chilled and enjoy the delightful crunch and flavors with your meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Balances creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy elements for a well-rounded bite.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly.
  • Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish to your favorite grilled mains.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and purple cabbage, sliced apples, chopped walnuts, and green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy.

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