When you’re looking for a refreshing, colorful side dish that brings both crunch and a burst of seasonal flavor, this Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts checks every box. With a creamy ginger-infused dressing, this coleslaw isn’t just another deli counter afterthought—it’s the star of the table.

Perfect for potlucks, picnics, holiday spreads, and weeknight dinners, this vibrant salad is a year-round favorite. Whether you’re serving roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or a hearty veggie burger, this coleslaw adds balance, brightness, and texture to any plate.

This recipe is designed for busy home cooks, flavor lovers, and anyone who appreciates the magic of sweet-savory combinations. It’s easy to prepare in minutes, stores beautifully, and is endlessly customizable based on your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

This coleslaw blends the crisp texture of shredded cabbage with the natural sweetness of apples and cranberries, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sharp bite of green onions. All of that is brought together with a creamy dressing that’s rich, slightly tangy, and spiced with a hint of warming ginger.

It’s:

Quick to make (under 15 minutes active time)
Naturally gluten-free
Make-ahead friendly
A crowd-pleasing addition to almost any meal
Packed with contrast in texture and flavor

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw:

1 (14-ounce) bag 3-color coleslaw mix
1 large apple, chopped (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work great)
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
4 green onions, sliced thinly

For the Dressing:

¾ cup mayonnaise
¾ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream, depending on your preference)
¼ cup honey
¾ teaspoon ground ginger

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl (for dressing)
Whisk or fork
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula or large spoon
Airtight container (for leftovers)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Coleslaw Base

Start by combining the shredded coleslaw mix, chopped apple, dried cranberries, walnuts, and sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to distribute all the ingredients evenly.

2. Whisk the Creamy Dressing

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and ground ginger until completely smooth and creamy.

3. Combine & Coat

Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Use a spatula or large spoon to ensure the dressing reaches every bite.

4. Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl or transfer to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and allows the cabbage to soften just slightly for the perfect texture.

Optional Variation: Lightened-Up Version

If you prefer a less creamy coleslaw, reduce the dressing ingredients as follows:

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup plain yogurt
3 tablespoons honey
½ teaspoon ground ginger

This version is slightly tangier and lighter in consistency while still delivering big flavor.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Swaps

Get Creative with These Add-Ins:

Chopped pears or pomegranate arils for a festive, fruity twist
Toasted pecans or almonds instead of walnuts
Grated carrots for added sweetness and crunch
Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint for freshness
A splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang

Make it Vegan:

Use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt
Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar

Add Protein for a Complete Meal:

Grilled chicken breast or rotisserie chicken slices
Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Roasted chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian boost

How to Serve It

This coleslaw is versatile enough to go with just about anything. Here are some ideas for pairing:

As a Side Dish:

BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Grilled or baked chicken
Turkey sandwiches
Fish tacos or crab cakes
Veggie burgers or lentil patties

In a Bowl:

Layer it over a bed of quinoa or greens with roasted sweet potatoes and sliced avocado for a fall-inspired grain bowl.

In Wraps or Sandwiches:

Tuck it into a pita with grilled chicken, or serve inside a wrap with turkey and Swiss.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, though the texture may soften slightly. Give it a stir before serving.

Do Not Freeze:

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days. The creamy dressing and fresh produce do not freeze well and may separate or become watery when thawed.

Tips for Success

Choose a firm, crisp apple: Apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady hold up well in salads without getting mushy.
Pre-packaged coleslaw mix saves time: Look for the 3-color blend for visual appeal, or shred your own green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
Toast the nuts: This adds a layer of complexity and crunch that really elevates the dish.
Let it chill: Don’t skip the 30-minute rest—it allows all the components to come together harmoniously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling. Make it up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

What if I don’t have yogurt or sour cream?

You can use all mayonnaise, though the dressing will be richer and less tangy. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to balance it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as your mayo, yogurt, and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, this coleslaw is naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best apple to use?

Crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, or Braeburn work beautifully. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious.

Can I use fresh cranberries?

Dried cranberries are preferred for this recipe. If you want to use fresh, you’ll need to cook and sweeten them slightly to avoid excess tartness.

Final Thoughts

This Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts is a refreshing twist on traditional slaw that’s loaded with crunch, flavor, and color. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to your taste, and perfect for just about every season or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, heading to a picnic, or meal-prepping for the week, this coleslaw is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts

Crisp Apple Cranberry Coleslaw with Walnuts: A Sweet and Tangy Twist on a Classic Side