There’s something incredibly delightful about the crunch of fresh vegetables mixed with sweet and tangy flavors, and that’s exactly why I adore this **Cabbage and Apple Slaw**! I remember the first time I tried it at a summer picnic; the bright, vibrant colors and the fresh taste just brought the entire meal to life! It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, a light lunch, or even as a topping on tacos!
What makes this slaw truly special is the marriage of hearty cabbage and crisp apples. They complement each other in the most satisfying way, and I love how you can easily customize it according to your taste. Let’s dive into the ingredients and everything you need for this delicious dish!
What’s in Cabbage and Apple Slaw?
Cabbage: The star of the show! I prefer a mixture of green and purple cabbage for a pop of color and a bit more flavor, plus it’s super crunchy!
Apples: Sweet, juicy apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji are my go-to choices because they add that refreshing sweetness that balances the bitterness of the cabbage.
Carrots: Grated or julienned, carrots bring a nice sweetness and a lovely orange hue. They’re also a great source of beta carotene!
Red Onion: Diced red onion lends a sharp bite and beautiful color to the slaw. If you prefer a milder flavor, soaking them in water for a bit helps tone down the intensity.
Pecans or Walnuts: Added for crunch and a nutty flavor, I like to toast them lightly to enhance their taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is what gives the slaw a zesty kick! It’s tangy and brightens up the entire dish.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A little sweetness goes a long way! You can use honey for a floral note or maple syrup for an earthy sweetness.
Olive Oil: A good drizzle of olive oil enhances the dressing, making the slaw creamy. I always opt for a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil!
Is Cabbage and Apple Slaw Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This slaw packs a nutritional punch.
Cabbage: A fantastic source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It’s great for digestion and helps keep your immune system strong.
Apples: They not only add sweetness but also come with lots of fiber and vitamin C! Plus, they’re low in calories, making them a guilt-free addition.
Carrots: A great source of vitamins A, K, and antioxidants. They’re fantastic for eye health, too!
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sugar intake, be mindful of the honey or maple syrup; you can always reduce the amount or omit it for a lower-sugar version.
Ingredients
– 4 cups of shredded green and purple cabbage
– 2 medium apples, diced (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
– 1 cup of grated carrots
– ½ red onion, finely diced
– 1 cup of pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
– ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– ¼ cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves approximately 6-8 people.*
How to Make Cabbage and Apple Slaw?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and grated carrots.
2. Add the finely diced red onion and chopped nuts into the cabbage mixture.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until the veggies are well coated.
5. Let the slaw sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
A Crunchy Twist on Serving
Feel free to mix things up! You could add raisins or cranberries for an additional sweet element. Or try swapping out the nuts if you’re nut-free. Sometimes I toss in a bit of shredded kale for added nutrients! And if I’m feeling fancy, I throw in some crumbled feta cheese for a savory touch.
I truly encourage you to give this Cabbage and Apple Slaw a try! It’s not only refreshing and delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up. If you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!