A crunchy, colorful twist on classic coleslaw.
This Apple Slaw is light, refreshing, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavor—thanks to crisp apples, crunchy cabbage, dried cranberries, and almonds.
It comes together in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, or just want something fresh and fun on the table, this slaw delivers.
It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
For the Dressing
- Greek Yogurt – I recommend using thick Greek yogurt like Fage for the best consistency.
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the dressing.
- Honey – Brings a subtle sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a nice zing and brightness to the dressing.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning and balancing flavors.
For the Slaw
- Cabbage – Shredded to give that classic crunchy texture.
- Carrots – Matchstick carrots add a bit of sweetness and extra crunch.
- Gala Apples – Sliced into matchsticks, they provide a sweet, fresh bite.
- Green Onions – For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Sliced Almonds – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
- Dried Cranberries – A sweet, chewy component that complements the apples.
- Optional Cheese – Crumbled feta, blue cheese, or sharp cheddar can be added for extra flavor.
Apple Slaw
Notes
Ingredients
For the Dressing:- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (Fage recommended for thickness)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 small cabbage, shredded (about 6–7 cups packed or 16 oz chopped)
- 1½ cups matchstick carrots
- 2 large Gala apples, cut into matchsticks (about 3 cups)
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- ¾ cup crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shredded sharp cheddar (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, mayo, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, green onions, almonds, cranberries, and cheese (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or within a few hours for best texture and freshness.
Notes:
- Any type of Greek yogurt (whole, low-fat, or non-fat) works here.
- Makes about 10 cups.
- Nutrition info does not include optional cheese.
Nutrition
Calories: 236 kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 81mg | Potassium: 356mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 26g
Vitamin A: 4158 IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 1mg
1. Can I make apple slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare apple slaw a day or two in advance. For the best crunch and flavor, it’s ideal to consume it within 24 hours. To preserve texture and freshness, store the dressing and chopped apples separately, then mix them just before serving.
2. How do I prevent the apples from browning in the slaw?
Toss the apples with a bit of lemon juice immediately after cutting to slow oxidation. The apple cider vinegar in the dressing also helps minimize browning.
3. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a convenient shortcut that saves time without sacrificing texture or flavor.
4. How can I make the slaw spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce to bring in some heat. Start small and adjust to your taste.
5. How should I store leftover apple slaw?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days. Note that the apples may soften slightly over time, but the slaw will still be flavorful and crisp if stored properly.
