Crisp & Refreshing Apple Jicama Coleslaw: A Healthy & Delicious Side Dish

Are you tired of the same old boring coleslaw? Do you crave a side dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Apple Jicama Coleslaw recipe is the answer. It’s a delightful twist on the classic, adding the sweetness of apples and the satisfying crunch of jicama to a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch, this coleslaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s about incorporating nutritious ingredients into your diet in a delicious way. Apples are packed with fiber and antioxidants, while jicama is low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. Together, they create a coleslaw that’s both good for you and incredibly satisfying.

## Why You’ll Love This Apple Jicama Coleslaw

* **Unique Flavor Profile:** The combination of sweet apples, crunchy jicama, and a tangy dressing creates a complex and refreshing flavor that’s unlike any coleslaw you’ve had before.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this coleslaw is a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious side dish.
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this coleslaw in minutes.
* **Versatile:** Perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different fruits, vegetables, or nuts.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing Apple Jicama Coleslaw:

* **Coleslaw Mix:** 1 (14-16 ounce) bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
* **Jicama:** 1 medium jicama, peeled and julienned or diced
* **Apples:** 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), cored and julienned or diced
* **Mayonnaise:** 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use light mayo for a lower-calorie option)
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* **Dijon Mustard:** 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* **Honey or Maple Syrup:** 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
* **Celery Seeds:** 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Optional Add-ins:** Chopped pecans or walnuts, dried cranberries, raisins, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Mixing Bowl
* Knife and Cutting Board
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
* Whisk

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Apple Jicama Coleslaw:

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

* Peel the jicama and either julienne it into thin strips or dice it into small cubes. Aim for a consistent size for even distribution.
* Core the apples and either julienne them or dice them, similar to the jicama. To prevent browning, you can toss the apples with a squeeze of lemon juice.

**Step 2: Make the Dressing**

* In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and celery seeds until smooth and well combined.
* Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference. Add more honey for a sweeter dressing or more apple cider vinegar for a tangier dressing.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.

**Step 3: Combine Ingredients**

* In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, julienned or diced jicama, and julienned or diced apples.
* If you’re using any optional add-ins like nuts, dried cranberries, or herbs, add them to the bowl as well.

**Step 4: Add the Dressing and Toss**

* Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture.
* Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the coleslaw soggy.

**Step 5: Chill and Serve**

* Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container.
* Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the coleslaw to chill and become more refreshing.
* Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
* Serve chilled and enjoy!

## Tips for the Best Apple Jicama Coleslaw

* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of your coleslaw. Choose crisp, firm apples and jicama.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing can make the coleslaw soggy. Gently toss the ingredients together until just combined.
* **Chill Before Serving:** Chilling the coleslaw allows the flavors to meld together and makes it more refreshing.
* **Adjust the Sweetness and Tanginess:** Taste the dressing and adjust the honey or apple cider vinegar to your liking. Everyone has different preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
* **Add a Pop of Color:** Add some chopped red cabbage or purple carrots to the coleslaw mix for a more visually appealing dish.
* **Toast the Nuts (Optional):** Toasting the nuts before adding them to the coleslaw will enhance their flavor and crunch.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can make this coleslaw a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Prevent Browning Apples:** To keep apples from browning, toss them with a tablespoon of lemon juice after cutting.
* **Adjust Jicama Size:** You can finely dice the jicama for a more subtle crunch, or use larger julienned pieces for a more pronounced texture.

## Variations and Add-ins

This Apple Jicama Coleslaw recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins to customize it to your liking:

* **Fruit Variations:**
* Add other fruits like grapes, mandarin oranges, or pineapple for extra sweetness.
* Use different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor.
* **Vegetable Variations:**
* Add shredded red cabbage or purple carrots for extra color and nutrients.
* Include thinly sliced red onion for a bit of bite.
* Add shredded Brussels sprouts for a nutty flavor.
* **Nut and Seed Variations:**
* Use different types of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
* Add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrients.
* **Herb Variations:**
* Add chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* **Spicy Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
* Include a finely minced jalapeño pepper for a spicier coleslaw.
* **Dressing Variations:**
* Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lower-fat option.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice for a different citrusy flavor.
* Use a poppy seed dressing instead of the apple cider vinaigrette.
* **Vegan Variation:**
* Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey to make this coleslaw vegan.

## Serving Suggestions

This Apple Jicama 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, ribs, or chicken.
* **Sandwiches:** Use it as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, fish tacos, or veggie burgers.
* **Salads:** Add it to a mixed green salad for extra flavor and crunch.
* **Tacos:** This slaw is amazing served as a topping for fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or vegetarian tacos.
* **Potlucks:** Bring it to a potluck or picnic as a refreshing and healthy side dish.
* **Light Lunch:** Enjoy a bowl of Apple Jicama Coleslaw as a light and satisfying lunch.
* **Main Course Accompaniment:** Pair it with grilled salmon, baked chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

## Nutritional Information (per serving)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* **Calories:** Approximately 200-250 calories
* **Fat:** 15-20 grams
* **Saturated Fat:** 3-4 grams
* **Cholesterol:** 15-20 mg
* **Sodium:** 100-150 mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 15-20 grams
* **Fiber:** 3-4 grams
* **Sugar:** 10-12 grams
* **Protein:** 1-2 grams

## How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Jicama Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the coleslaw may become a bit softer over time as the dressing sits. If there is excess liquid, drain the coleslaw before serving.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?**

A: Yes, you can make this coleslaw a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together even more overnight.

**Q: How do I prevent the apples from browning?**

A: To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a tablespoon of lemon juice after cutting.

**Q: Can I use a different type of apple?**

A: Yes, you can use any type of apple you like. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples are all good choices. For a tart flavor, try Granny Smith apples.

**Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?**

A: While apple cider vinegar is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute with white vinegar or rice vinegar if needed. Keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different.

**Q: Can I make this coleslaw vegan?**

A: Yes, you can easily make this coleslaw vegan by using vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey.

**Q: Can I freeze this coleslaw?**

A: Freezing coleslaw is not recommended as the texture of the ingredients, especially the mayonnaise-based dressing and the fresh vegetables, will change significantly upon thawing, resulting in a watery and unappetizing product.

## Conclusion

This Apple Jicama Coleslaw is a delicious and refreshing twist on the classic side dish. With its unique flavor profile, healthy ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, potluck, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this coleslaw is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!