This apple coleslaw recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic dish, combining the crispness of cabbage and carrots with the sweet and tart flavors of apple. Perfect for a summer picnic or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit with everyone.
While most of the ingredients for this apple coleslaw recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up apple cider vinegar and honey if they are not already in your kitchen. These ingredients add a unique tangy and sweet flavor to the dressing, making the coleslaw stand out.

Ingredients For Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Cabbage: Provides a crunchy base for the coleslaw.
Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
Apple: Brings a sweet and tart flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy texture for the dressing.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to balance the sweetness.
Honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the coleslaw.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the dish.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the cabbage for this apple coleslaw, make sure to shred it finely. This ensures that the dressing coats each piece evenly, enhancing the overall texture and flavor. Additionally, to prevent the apple slices from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the coleslaw. This not only keeps the apple slices looking fresh but also adds a subtle tang that complements the honey in the dressing.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
shredded cabbage - Substitute with shredded Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts offer a similar crunch and slightly different flavor profile that complements the other ingredients well.
shredded carrots - Substitute with shredded jicama: Jicama provides a similar texture and a mildly sweet flavor, adding a refreshing twist to the coleslaw.
apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar sweetness and crisp texture, making them a great alternative to apples.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with a tangy flavor, and it is a healthier option with more protein and less fat.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tangy flavor to the coleslaw.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile that can add depth to the dressing.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the coleslaw.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor that can add a unique twist to the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- To store your apple coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep the cabbage and apple slices crisp and fresh.
- Place the container in the refrigerator. Your coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The mayonnaise dressing helps preserve the vegetables while enhancing their flavors.
- If you wish to freeze the coleslaw, it's best to do so without the dressing. The mayonnaise can separate and become watery upon thawing, which affects the texture.
- To freeze, pack the shredded cabbage, carrots, and apple slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents. Your vegetable mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- When ready to use, thaw the coleslaw mix in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, prepare the dressing fresh and mix it with the vegetables.
- For best results, consume the apple coleslaw within a day or two after thawing to enjoy the optimal texture and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Embrace the chill: Unlike many dishes, apple coleslaw is best enjoyed cold. Instead of reheating, give it a good stir and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to take the edge off the chill. This will help the flavors of the cabbage, carrots, and apple shine through.
Freshen it up: If you feel the coleslaw has lost some of its zest, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a drizzle of honey to revive the flavors. A quick toss will redistribute the dressing and bring back its vibrant taste.
Add a crunch: Sometimes, the cabbage and carrots can soften over time. To restore that satisfying crunch, mix in a handful of freshly shredded cabbage or carrots just before serving.
Serve creatively: If you're looking for a new way to enjoy your leftover apple coleslaw, consider using it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish tacos. The cool, crisp texture pairs wonderfully with warm, savory dishes.
Avoid the microwave: Reheating coleslaw in the microwave can make it soggy and unappetizing. Stick to the methods above to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Large mixing bowl: To combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple.
Small bowl: To whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk: To mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
Knife: To thinly slice the apple.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for slicing the apple.
Measuring cups: To measure out the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and mayonnaise.
Measuring spoons: To measure the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Refrigerator: To chill the coleslaw and allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Tongs or salad tossers: To toss the coleslaw and ensure the dressing coats the ingredients evenly.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-shredded vegetables: Buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots from the store to save time on preparation.
Use a food processor: If you prefer fresh ingredients, use a food processor to quickly shred the cabbage and carrots.
Pre-make the dressing: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can just pour it over the coleslaw when needed.
Apple slicing: Use an apple slicer to quickly and evenly slice the apple.
Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of coleslaw and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for quick and easy servings.

Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Value
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