Easy Tangy Coleslaw with Apple Recipe

Recipe Overview

Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this easy Tangy coleslaw with apple recipe! This delightful fusion of classic coleslaw with the refreshing sweetness of apples creates a medley that will captivate your taste buds and elevate any meal. Originating as a staple in American barbecue culture, coleslaw has evolved over the years, finding its way into numerous variations. This homemade Tangy coleslaw with apple from scratch combines crispy veggies and crunchy apples, coated in a tangy dressing that adds a zing to every bite.

You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this vegan Tangy coleslaw with apple: it requires minimal prep, yet offers complex flavors that pair beautifully with barbecue dishes, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a casual dinner, or just want to jazz up your lunch, this coleslaw is sure to please!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serving Size: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw:

4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
2 medium apples, cored and julienned (recommended: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 medium carrot, grated
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Tangy Dressing:

1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise for non-vegan option)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar for a less tangy sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Swaps:

For a creamier dressing, add 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt.
Substitute agave nectar with honey for a non-vegan option.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

Equipment List

Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Vegetable peeler (for grating carrots)
Grater (optional for carrots)
Food processor (optional for shredding cabbage and apples)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing all the fresh produce thoroughly. Shred the green and red cabbage finely. If you prefer a quicker method, short-cut the process using a food processor with the shredding attachment. Transfer the cabbage into the large mixing bowl.
Slice the Apples: Core the apples and julienne them into thin strips. This helps maintain a delicate texture that complements the crunch of the cabbage. Add the apples to the bowl.
Grate the Carrot: Using a grater or a food processor, grate the carrot until you have roughly one medium-sized carrot’s worth. Add it to the mixed vegetables.
Onion Slicing: Thinly slice the red onion and include it in your large bowl of veggies. The onion will add a delightful pop of color and sharp flavor.
Prepare the Dressing: In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined. Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper according to your preference.
Combine Dressing and Vegetables: Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies and apples. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to bruise the apples while mixing; a gentle folding motion works best.
Taste and Adjust: Sample your coleslaw and adjust seasoning if needed. If it needs more tang, a dash of vinegar can be added; if it feels too tangy, a little more maple syrup can balance it out.
Chill and Serve: To maximize flavor, let your coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully. The coleslaw will be crisp and refreshing, perfect to complement your meal!

Special Notes

For optimal storage, place the coleslaw in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 3 days but is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.

If you’re preparing the coleslaw ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the cabbage from wilting.

For troubleshooting, if you find the dressing too thick, adding a tablespoon or two of water will achieve a lighter consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, you can whisk in a bit more vegan mayonnaise to thicken it.

Variations and Customizations

This homemade Tangy coleslaw with apple is versatile! For a gluten-free variation, ensure the mayonnaise you choose is gluten-free. Those on a low-carb diet can replace apples with thinly sliced radishes or cucumber for a similar crunch with less sugar.

For extra flavor, consider adding spices such as celery seeds or smoked paprika, which will give root to a more complex taste profile. Additions such as raisins or cranberries can introduce a sweet contrast against the tang, while jalapeños or sliced chili pepper can add a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (Optional)

While this varies based on specific ingredients used, one serving of this Tangy coleslaw roughly contains:

Calories: 150
Protein: 1.5g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g

Engaging Visual Details

Imagine a vibrant bowl filled with colorful shredded cabbages, contrasting apple slices, and a hint of red onion peeking through. As you prepare the dressing, the creamy mixture glistens, infused with the tangy aroma of apple cider vinegar and the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. Picture the fresh crunch as you take your first bite; each chew releases the refreshing taste of crisp apples, followed by the satisfying crunch of cabbage, bathed in a wonderfully zesty sauce. You can enhance your recipe’s visual appeal by capturing images at each stage, from the colorful vegetables in the bowl to the final plated version ready to be enjoyed.

Conclusion

This easy Tangy coleslaw with apple recipe is a celebration of fresh flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, it’s simple to prepare and even better to eat. We encourage you to try this recipe and see how easily it can become a staple at your gatherings or weeknight dinners. Once you’ve made it, please leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or share your own version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!