Zesty Apple Cider Coleslaw

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on traditional coleslaw? This Zesty Apple Cider Coleslaw is just the ticket, combining crunchy veggies with a tangy-sweet dressing. Perfect for picnics or a light side dish, it’s a refreshing change that livens up any meal.

Ingredients for Zesty Apple Cider Coleslaw

Green cabbage and red cabbage form the crunchy base of this coleslaw, providing both texture and a mix of mild and slightly peppery flavors. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, while red onion introduces a sharp bite that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Apple cider vinegar is the star of the dressing, giving it a zesty punch that’s mellowed by the honey. The mayonnaise adds creaminess, while Dijon mustard lends a subtle heat and complexity. Finally, celery seed offers a hint of earthiness that ties everything together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For better flavor, make the coleslaw a day ahead and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
  • If you like your coleslaw with a bit more kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing.
  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly shredded veggies, saving time and effort.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially barbecued chicken or pork. It’s also fantastic tucked inside a sandwich or wrap, adding a refreshing crunch. Consider serving it alongside a hearty chili or as part of a picnic spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be used, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How long does this coleslaw keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last up to 3 days.
Is it possible to make this coleslaw vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Zesty Apple Cider Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

Start off with the veggies. In a large bowl, toss together 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 2 cups of shredded red cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, and 1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onion. Make sure everything is mixed well, giving you a vibrant, colorful base.

Next, it’s time to whip up the dressing. In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1/3 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed. Whisk until it's smooth and all the ingredients are well combined.

Pour the dressing over your cabbage mixture. Use a pair of tongs or a large spoon to toss everything until the veggies are thoroughly coated. This ensures every bite is full of flavor.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making your coleslaw even more flavorful.

Once chilled, give it a final toss before serving. Enjoy the refreshing crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare, with minimal fuss.
  • Combines sweet and tangy flavors for a delightful contrast.
  • Great make-ahead option—flavors improve as it sits.
  • Colorful, appealing presentation sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded green cabbage
2 cups shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and celery seed until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!