Zesty Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Name: Zesty Cabbage and Apple Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 large apple, cored and julienned (Granny Smith works great); 1 carrot, grated; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup applesauce; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Delights

I can't get enough of this Zesty Cabbage and Apple Slaw! The combination of crunchy cabbage and sweet apples, combined with a tangy dressing, creates a refreshing dish that brightens any meal. I love serving this slaw as a side at barbecues or as a topping for sandwiches. It's quick to whip up and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe whenever I need something vibrant and delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy more fresh veggies and fruits in my diet.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-19T19:17:19.010Z

When I first decided to make this slaw, I wanted to create something that was both tangy and sweet. After a few trials, I found that adding a splash of apple cider vinegar balanced the flavors perfectly. I also discovered that pairing the cabbage with crunchy apples like Granny Smith creates an exciting texture and freshness.

This slaw is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it also brings the right amount of acidity to rich dishes. I even love tossing in some nuts for an extra crunch!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crunchy texture with a burst of fruity sweetness
Tangy and refreshing flavor that complements any dish
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The key to this Zesty Cabbage and Apple Slaw is the combination of crunchy green cabbage and sweet, tart apples. While Granny Smith apples are my go-to for their crispness and tang, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavor profiles. The choice of apple can transform the dish, adding an exciting dimension. Just be sure to cut them into thin strips for the best texture in every bite.

Red onion adds a sharpness that balances the sweet and tangy elements of the slaw. If you're sensitive to the intensity of raw onion, consider soaking the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the mix. This can help mellow their flavor without losing that delightful crunch, ensuring your slaw retains its refreshing qualities.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing for this slaw brings everything together, blending sweetness from the honey and applesauce with the acidity of apple cider vinegar. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can swap the honey for a sugar substitute like agave syrup or maple syrup. Additionally, if you prefer a more tangy dressing, increase the apple cider vinegar to taste—this will enhance the slaw’s overall freshness.

For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your dressing. This subtle kick can elevate the entire flavor profile, making it a fantastic complement to barbecue dishes. Just remember to start with a little, as you can always add more but can’t take it out once it’s mixed in.

Serving and Storage Tips

This slaw is best served fresh, especially since the crunchy texture is a key feature. However, if you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the cabbage, apples, and carrots, and store them in the refrigerator separately from the dressing. Combine them just before serving to keep everything crisp. I often recommend this method if I'm bringing it to a potluck or a picnic.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the texture may soften a bit. To revive it, simply add a sprinkle of fresh cabbage or a splash of vinegar to refresh the flavors before serving it again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Zesty Cabbage and Apple Slaw:

Ingredients

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 large apple, cored and julienned (Granny Smith works great)
1 carrot, grated
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup applesauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your slaw:

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned apple, grated carrot, and sliced onion.

Prepare Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the applesauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy your slaw as a side or topping for various dishes!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other fruits like pears or nuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to tailor this slaw to your taste or dietary needs. For a vegan version, simply replace honey with agave syrup. You could also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and chewiness.

You can also throw in additional veggies such as bell peppers or radishes for more color and varied textures. Just ensure that they are sliced thinly to blend well with the cabbages and apples, making every bite balanced and delightful.

Pairing Suggestions

This slaw is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or hamburgers. The bright flavors can help cut through richer, heavier meals, making it a perfect accompaniment for barbecues or picnics. Try layering it on sandwiches or tacos for an added crunch and zing.

For a complete meal, consider serving the slaw alongside a hearty soup or with a grain salad. It can serve as a refreshing contrast against creamy side dishes, making it a well-rounded addition to any table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead of time; just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can include fruits like pears or even raisins for added sweetness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is it possible to make this slaw vegan?

Absolutely! Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.