Last Updated on August 27, 2025 by recipeinspire
Table of Contents
Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) Recipe: 5 Fresh Twists on Classic Coleslaw!
Have you ever wondered how a simple twist on a classic dish can elevate its flavor profile and appeal? If you’re craving a twist on coleslaw, you’re in for a treat with our Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) recipe! Not only does this refreshing dish pack a punch of vibrant flavors, but it also offers a unique way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. In this blog post, we’ll explore five creative variations on this timeless favorite, ensuring you never look at coleslaw the same way again!
Ingredients List

To prepare this delightful Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple), gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large crisp apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated carrots for a pop of color and sweetness
- ½ cup raisins or cranberries for a touch of tartness (optional)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for tanginess
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions:
- Swap Greek yogurt for a vegan alternative, like coconut yogurt, to make it dairy-free.
- Use walnuts or pecans instead of raisins for an added crunch.
Timing
Preparing this delightful dish requires just 15 minutes, significantly less than the 20-30 minutes typically needed for more complex coleslaw recipes. Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a potluck dish, this Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) is a quick win!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by finely shredding the cabbage and grating the carrots. Use a sharp knife or a food processor for efficient prep. The finer the shreds, the better the crunch!
Step 2: Slice the Apples
Thinly slice the apples, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Aim for uniform sizes for an appealing presentation!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cabbage, apples, and carrots. If you like a little extra sweetness, feel free to toss in the raisins or cranberries.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey or maple syrup. Season this creamy mixture with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Dress the Slaw
Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss until everything is well combined. The dressing should coat the slaw without drenched!
Step 6: Chill and Serve
For the best results, allow the slaw to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully. Serve cold and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Total Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
This recipe not only provides essential nutrients but also presents a balanced mix of vitamins from the apples and cabbage.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to boost the nutritional profile of your Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple)? Consider swapping out certain ingredients:
- Use a low-fat or fat-free yogurt option to further cut calories.
- Incorporate shredded Brussels sprouts or purple cabbage for added variety and antioxidants.
- Opt for roasted nuts or seeds to introduce healthy fats while enhancing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) experience by serving it in various creative ways:
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken or pork.
- As a Filling: Use it to stuff tacos or wraps for a fresh burst of flavor.
- On a Salad: Top your mixed greens with this slaw for a crunchy finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple), keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overdressing the Slaw: Too much dressing can make it soggy—start with less and add more to your liking.
- Using Old Ingredients: Fresh, crisp apples and cabbage yield the best taste.
- Not Letting it Chill: Chilling allows flavors to develop; don’t skip this crucial step!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Planning to make this slaw ahead of time? Here are some storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain crispness.
- For meal prep, store the shredded cabbage and carrots together and the dressing in a small container for a quick assembly later.

Apple Slaw (Cabbage + Apple)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Slaw combines crisp cabbage and sweet-tart apples with a tangy, creamy dressing. A refreshing, crunchy side dish perfect for summer barbecues, lunch, or a light dinner accompaniment.
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, julienned apple, and shredded carrot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Use tart apples for a nice contrast with the creamy dressing. This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side at picnics.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: apple slaw, cabbage apple salad, creamy slaw, healthy side dish, crunchy apple salad
Conclusion
Our Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) recipe not only offers a refreshing twist to your classic coleslaw but is also versatile and easy to make. The combination of tangy apples and creamy dressing creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. Are you ready to give your next gathering a fresh addition? Try this recipe, and let us know how it turned out. For more creative ideas and seasonal dishes, explore our other posts!
FAQs
What Type of Apples Work Best for Slaw?
Firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji provide the best crunch and flavor contrast!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based yogurt and sweeteners, like maple syrup, to keep it vegan-friendly.
How Long Does Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your slaw will stay fresh for up to three days!
For delicious flavor and diversity, don’t forget to explore our related post about seasonal recipes at Apple Slaw (Cabbage+Apple) that pairs well with a variety of dishes!