Zesty Apple Carrot Coleslaw

Name: Zesty Apple Carrot Coleslaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced; 2 large carrots, peeled and shredded; 1 large apple, grated; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp dijon mustard; 1/4 tsp celery seeds; Salt and pepper to taste

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 6

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Get ready to elevate your coleslaw game with this Zesty Apple Carrot Coleslaw. It’s a refreshing, crunchy, and slightly sweet twist on a classic, perfect for any season and any table. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a side dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Zesty Apple Carrot Coleslaw

Green cabbage is the crunchy backbone of this dish, providing a refreshing base that holds well against the dressing. Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix, while a large apple brings a juicy crispness that ties the flavors together. For the dressing, mayonnaise provides creaminess, and apple cider vinegar adds a tangy punch. A touch of honey sweetens the dressing naturally, while dijon mustard offers a subtle kick. Celery seeds enhance the dish with a mild, earthy flavor, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds it all out perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

For a creamier texture, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced cabbage if you have one.
Feel free to mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness.
If your apple is particularly juicy, give the grated apple a light squeeze to remove excess moisture before adding it.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw pairs beautifully with pulled pork sandwiches or as a crunchy topping for fish tacos. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a juicy burger. It’s also perfect as part of a picnic spread or a potluck favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?: Absolutely! Red cabbage will add a vibrant color and slightly different texture.
How long will this coleslaw keep in the fridge?: Stored in an airtight container, it should last for up to 3 days.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?: You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative for a lighter version.

Zesty Apple Carrot Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your veggies: grab half a head of green cabbage and slice it thinly. You want those nice, delicate shreds. Next, take your two large carrots, peel them, and use a grater to shred them. Keep the pieces roughly the same size as the cabbage for the best texture. Lastly, grab one large apple, and — you guessed it — grate it. The apple adds a lovely sweetness that complements the other flavors.

Now, for the dressing. In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard until smooth. Add in 1/4 teaspoon of celery seeds, then season with salt and pepper. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Pour this creamy concoction over your prepared veggies and toss everything together until everything is well coated. You’re aiming for a nice, even distribution of dressing over every last shred.

To meld the flavors and let everything settle, refrigerate your coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. Trust me, the wait is worth it. This resting time allows the dressing to soak into the veggies, making each bite flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Combines sweet and tangy flavors for a refreshing taste.
Quick and easy to prepare — done in under 15 minutes!
Uses readily available ingredients, making it budget-friendly.
Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light snack.
Great way to sneak in some extra veggies and fruits.

Ingredients

1/2 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced

2 large carrots, peeled and shredded

1 large apple, grated

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp dijon mustard

1/4 tsp celery seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, shredded carrots, and grated apple.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper.