Ever feel like side dishes are the unsung heroes of dinner? You’ve nailed the main course, but that bagged salad in your fridge feels… meh. Enter this Apple Slaw Recipe—your ticket to a vibrant, crunchy, sweet-and-tangy side that steals the spotlight. (Yes, even picky eaters will ask for seconds.)
I’m Nadia Else, a recipe developer and food photographer who’s obsessed with turning humble ingredients into crave-worthy dishes. With over a decade of experience creating family-friendly meals, I’ve learned one truth: the best recipes are simple, reliable, and packed with flavor. This slaw checks all those boxes—plus, it’s gluten-free and easily customizable.
Table of Contents
What Is Apple Slaw?
Apple slaw is a fresh twist on classic coleslaw, swapping out heavy mayo-drenched cabbage for crisp Granny Smith apples, shredded carrots, and a lighter (but still creamy!) dressing. Fun fact: The word “coleslaw” comes from the Dutch koolsla (“cabbage salad”), dating back to the 18th century. But let’s be honest—our ancestors never tossed theirs with juicy apples and Dijon mustard!
This version strikes the perfect balance: crunchy, slightly sweet, and tangy, with a dressing that clings to every shred without drowning it. It’s ideal for summer BBQs, weeknight tacos, or even as a sandwich topper.
Why This Apple Slaw Recipe Works for Real Life
15-Minute Prep: No cooking, no fuss—just chop, toss, and serve.
Crunch That Lasts: Unlike sad, soggy slaws, this stays crisp for days.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it in the morning, and it’s even better by dinner.
Kid-Friendly (But Not Boring): Sweet apples and creamy dressing win over little ones.
Endlessly Adaptable: Vegan? Spicy? We’ve got swaps for that.
How to Make Apple Slaw: Ingredients & Pro Tips
Key Ingredients & Smart Swaps
(Serves 6–8)
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds tang!)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp whole grain Dijon mustard (adds texture)
- ½ tsp each of salt, celery seed, and black pepper
Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (swap 2 cups of red cabbage for color)
- 2 Granny Smith apples, julienned (skin on for extra fiber!)
- 1 cup shredded carrot (buy pre-shredded to save time)
Pro Tip: Toss the apples in 1 tsp lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Whisk all dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as needed.
- Combine the Slaw: In a large bowl, mix cabbage, apples, and carrots.
- Toss & Rest: Pour dressing over the slaw and mix until evenly coated. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours) to let flavors meld.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your slaw looks dry, add 1–2 tbsp of water or extra mayo. Too tangy? A pinch of sugar balances it out.
Customize Your Slaw: Pro Variations
Vegan: Use vegan mayo and maple syrup.
Spicy: Add 1 minced jalapeño or ¼ tsp cayenne to the dressing.
Lower Sugar: Skip the sugar and add ½ tsp honey.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with Curried Sausages for a sweet-and-savory combo.
- Stuff into fish tacos or pulled chicken sandwiches.
- Lentil Curry for a refreshing contrast.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 150 | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 15g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 1g
Nutrition info is estimated. For precise values, use a calculator.
For a USDA-approved nutritional analysis of a similar slaw, see MyPlate’s breakdown
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended—cabbage gets watery when thawed.
- Revive Leftovers: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage?
Absolutely! Swap half the green cabbage for red for a colorful twist.
How long does it last?
Up to 5 days in the fridge—the vinegar acts as a natural preservative.
Can I make it vegan?
Yep! Use vegan mayo and maple syrup (see “Pro Variations” above).
Rate This Recipe!
Have you tried this apple slaw recipe? Let me know how it turned out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Leave a comment, tag me on social @NadiaElseEats, or share a photo with #KitchenLovers.
Craving more crunch? Explore these reader favorites:
- Ultimate Mash Recipe – Creamy comfort food at its best.
- Homemade Chili Oil – Spice up your slaw or noodles!
About Nadia Else
Nadia Else is a culinary expert known for her creative approach to family-friendly meals and decadent desserts. As a seasoned recipe developer and food photographer, she transforms everyday ingredients into unforgettable dishes, blending accessible cooking with visually stunning presentations to inspire home cooks everywhere.
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