Easy Apple Carrot Coleslaw: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Side Dish

Are you looking for a vibrant and delicious side dish that’s both easy to make and packed with nutrients? Look no further than this easy apple carrot coleslaw! This recipe takes the traditional coleslaw and gives it a refreshing twist with the addition of sweet apples and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect accompaniment to barbecues, sandwiches, salads, or as a light and healthy snack. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra fruits and vegetables into your diet.

## Why You’ll Love This Apple Carrot Coleslaw

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients. You can whip it up in just minutes!
* **Delicious and Flavorful:** The combination of sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and a tangy dressing creates a flavor explosion in your mouth.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this coleslaw is a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic side dish.
* **Versatile:** This coleslaw can be served with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s a casual barbecue or a potluck, this coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. You probably already have many of these items in your pantry and refrigerator.

* **Carrots:** The base of our coleslaw, carrots add sweetness, crunch, and a vibrant orange color. Use approximately 2 cups of shredded carrots. You can either shred them yourself using a grater or food processor, or purchase pre-shredded carrots to save time.
* **Apples:** Choose a crisp and slightly tart apple variety for the best flavor. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well. You’ll need about 2 medium-sized apples, cored and shredded or diced.
* **Cabbage:** Adds a classic coleslaw flavor and texture. You can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or a combination of both. About 4 cups of shredded cabbage is needed. Again, pre-shredded cabbage is an option for convenience.
* **Mayonnaise:** The base of the creamy dressing. You can use regular mayonnaise, light mayonnaise, or even a vegan mayonnaise alternative.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** Provides a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples and carrots. You can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
* **Sugar:** A touch of sweetness to enhance the overall flavor. Adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dressing. You can omit it if you prefer.
* **Celery Seeds:** Adds a slightly savory and aromatic note to the coleslaw. Optional but recommended.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious apple carrot coleslaw.

**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Apples**

* Wash and peel the carrots. Shred them using a grater or food processor. Set aside in a large bowl.
* Wash and core the apples. Shred or dice them into small pieces. Add them to the bowl with the carrots. If you’re dicing, aim for pieces that are roughly the same size as the shredded carrots for a uniform texture.
* If using a whole head of cabbage, remove the outer leaves and shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Alternatively, use pre-shredded cabbage. Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl with the carrots and apples.

**Step 2: Make the Dressing**

* In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), celery seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust the amount of sugar, salt, and pepper to your liking.
* Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember that the flavors will meld together as the coleslaw sits, so don’t be afraid to be a little generous with the seasonings.

**Step 3: Combine and Chill**

* Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and apples in the large bowl.
* Gently toss everything together until the vegetables and apples are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the coleslaw watery.
* Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!

**Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**

* Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir. You may notice that some liquid has accumulated at the bottom of the bowl. This is normal. Just stir it back in.
* Serve the apple carrot coleslaw chilled. It’s delicious on its own as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or tacos.

## Tips and Variations

* **Add-ins:** Feel free to add other ingredients to your coleslaw to customize it to your liking. Some popular additions include raisins, cranberries, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese.
* **Dressing Variations:** Experiment with different dressings to create your own unique coleslaw flavor. Try using a honey-mustard dressing, a poppy seed dressing, or a creamy dill dressing.
* **Vegan Option:** To make this coleslaw vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as the Dijon mustard, are also vegan-friendly.
* **Low-Fat Option:** Use light mayonnaise or a combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to reduce the fat content of the dressing.
* **Sweetness Adjustment:** If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add more sugar to the dressing. If you prefer a less sweet coleslaw, reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute.
* **Texture Preference:** If you prefer a crunchier coleslaw, add the dressing just before serving. If you prefer a softer coleslaw, let it sit in the refrigerator for a longer period of time.
* **Make Ahead:** This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.

## Serving Suggestions

This apple carrot coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Barbecues:** Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, chicken, or ribs.
* **Sandwiches:** Use it as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, or vegetarian sandwiches.
* **Salads:** Add it to a mixed green salad for extra flavor and texture.
* **Tacos:** Use it as a topping for fish tacos, chicken tacos, or vegetarian tacos.
* **Wraps:** Add it to a wrap with grilled chicken or tofu.
* **Picnics:** Pack it in a cooler for a refreshing side dish at your next picnic.
* **Potlucks:** Bring it to your next potluck and watch it disappear!

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 2-3g
* Cholesterol: 5-10mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 10-15g
* Protein: 1-2g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.*

## Recipe Card

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Chill time:** 30 minutes (minimum)

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups shredded carrots
* 2 medium apples, cored and shredded or diced
* 4 cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or a combination)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular, light, or vegan)
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, apples, and cabbage.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), celery seeds (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and apples. Gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Stir before serving. Serve chilled.

Enjoy your delicious and easy apple carrot coleslaw!

## Conclusion

This easy apple carrot coleslaw is a refreshing and flavorful twist on a classic side dish. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and healthy coleslaw that everyone will love. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!