Apple Cabbage Slaw
Jump to RecipeLooking for a fresh and crunchy side dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors? Look no further than this delightful Apple Cabbage Slaw! This vibrant salad combines crisp green cabbage with the tartness of Granny Smith apples, complemented by the natural sweetness of carrots and a hint of red onion. Tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey, this slaw is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It's the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch option on its own. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier diet or simply want to enjoy a refreshing dish, this Apple Cabbage Slaw is packed with flavor and crunch. Let's dive into this quick and satisfying recipe that will elevate your meal prep and impress your guests!
Ingredients
green cabbage
Ensure to remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves before shredding. For a finer texture, use a mandoline slicer. If you don't have green cabbage, you can substitute it with Napa cabbage or purple cabbage for a different flavor and color.
granny smith apple
Choose firm, unblemished apples for the best crunch. To prevent browning after slicing, toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice. If Granny Smith apples aren't available, you can substitute with Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a similar tartness.
carrot
Peel the carrot before grating to remove any skin. Use a box grater or food processor for quicker grating. If you're out of fresh carrots, you can use pre-grated carrots or even shredded zucchini as a substitute.
red onion
Soak the thinly sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the slaw to reduce its sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions or shallots as a substitute.
mayonnaise
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, which will also add creaminess. If you're looking for a vegan option, use a plant-based mayonnaise.
apple cider vinegar
If you prefer a milder acidity, you can substitute with lemon juice or rice vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can also be mixed with a bit of water if you find it too strong.
honey
If you're looking for a vegan option, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. For a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like agave nectar.
salt
Start with a small pinch and gradually add more to taste. Sea salt or kosher salt can enhance the flavor better than table salt due to their larger crystals.
black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper provides more flavor than pre-ground. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne for some extra kick.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Shred the green cabbage into thin strips and place it in a large mixing bowl. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices.Step 2: Slice the Apple
Core and thinly slice the Granny Smith apple. Keeping the skin on adds color and nutrients. Add the apple slices to the bowl with the cabbage.Step 3: Grate the Carrot
Grate the medium carrot using a box grater or a food processor. This adds sweetness and color to your slaw.Step 4: Slice the Red Onion
Thinly slice the small red onion to ensure it integrates well with the other ingredients. Add it to the mixing bowl.Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of honey until smooth. This dressing adds creaminess and tang to your slaw.Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the cabbage, apple, carrot, and onion mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated.Step 7: Season and Serve
Season the slaw with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a crunchy texture or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I correctly shred green cabbage?
To shred green cabbage, remove the outer leaves and cut the cabbage in half. Lay each half flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice thin strips from the top to the bottom. Alternatively, you can use a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment for quicker results.
What’s the best way to core and slice an apple?
To core and slice a Granny Smith apple, first cut it into quarters. Use a paring knife to remove the core from each quarter. Then, slice each quarter thinly. If you want to prevent browning, toss the slices in a little lemon juice.
How do I grate a carrot without a grater?
If you don't have a grater, you can finely chop the carrot with a knife. Peel the carrot first, then cut it into thin slices, and finally chop those slices into small pieces. This will mimic the texture of grated carrot.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice. Both will add a nice acidity to your slaw.
How can I tell if the slaw is seasoned properly?
To check if your slaw is seasoned properly, taste a small amount after adding salt and black pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out, so add a little at a time and adjust to your preference.
How long can I store the slaw in the refrigerator?
The slaw can be refrigerated for up to an hour before serving. However, if you prepare it in advance, it can be stored for up to 2-3 days, but the cabbage may become softer over time.
What are some variations I can try with this slaw?
You can add other ingredients like shredded broccoli, diced bell peppers, or even nuts for crunch. You can also experiment with different dressings by adding yogurt or mustard for a different flavor profile.
How do I ensure my kitchen is safe while cooking?
Always wash your hands before cooking, especially after handling raw ingredients. Keep your workspace clean, use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables, and be careful with sharp knives to prevent cuts.
What tools do I need to make this slaw?
You will need a cutting board, a sharp knife, a grater or peeler for the carrot, a large mixing bowl for the slaw, and a small bowl for whisking the dressing.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
This slaw can easily be made vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a tahini dressing. For those on a gluten-free diet, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Ensure to check the labels of any store-bought mayo to confirm it meets dietary needs.
Pairings
This Apple Cabbage Slaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or fish, where the acidity of the slaw cuts through the richness of the protein. For beverages, consider pairing with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a splash of lemon or iced tea.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the slaw chilled in a large glass bowl or on individual plates for a fresh presentation. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor. For a crunchier texture, serve immediately after mixing. Consider adding toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra flavor and texture.
Apple Cabbage Slaw
Allergens:
Cuisine:
Course:
Description
A refreshing mix of crunchy cabbage and sweet apples, tossed in a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- green cabbage: 2 cups
- granny smith apple: 1 medium
- carrot: 1 medium
- red onion: 1 small
- mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons
- apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- honey: 1 teaspoon
- salt: 0 to taste
- black pepper: 0 to taste
Date Created:
3/9/2025