Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a vibrant dish to brighten up your holiday table, look no further than this Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette! This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful addition to any meal. It’s light, refreshing, and the perfect counterbalance to heavier dishes often served during family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

What I love most about this slaw is how it combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the sweet and tangy notes of cranberries and apple cider vinaigrette. It has quickly become a favorite in my house, and I’m sure it will be in yours too! Serve it at Thanksgiving or enjoy it as a quick lunch option; the versatility of this recipe makes it a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious slaw, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet cranberries, and nutty almonds creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this salad in advance. Just toss everything together before serving!
• Healthy Ingredients: With wholesome components like olive oil and fresh veggies, this slaw is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. These pantry staples come together beautifully to make a fresh and flavorful salad.

For the Vinaigrette

• 6 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
• 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard
• 1 small clove Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

For the Slaw

• 1/2 head Green Cabbage
• 1/2 small Red Onion
• 1 cup Dried Cranberries
• 1 cup Sliced Almonds
• 1/2 cup Flat Leaf Parsley

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your taste preferences.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added texture.
• Switch Up the Greens: Try using kale or Brussels sprouts instead of cabbage for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Creamy: Add a dollop of dairy-free yogurt for a creamy version of this slaw.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

How to Make Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. This dressing is crucial because it ties all the flavors together while adding a delightful zing!

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

Finely slice the green cabbage and red onion. Place them into a large mixing bowl. Chopping them well helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor and crunch!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add dried cranberries and sliced almonds to your bowl with cabbage and onion. These ingredients bring sweetness and nuttiness that perfectly complement the tangy dressing.

Step 4: Dress the Slaw

Pour your prepared vinaigrette over the slaw mixture. Toss everything gently until well coated. This step ensures that every piece gets that delicious flavor we created earlier.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle chopped flat-leaf parsley over your slaw for an extra pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy your delightful Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Making this slaw is a breeze, but with a few tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Opt for fresh cabbage and parsley to ensure maximum flavor and crunch. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the overall taste and texture of your slaw.
• Adjust sweetness to taste – If you prefer a sweeter slaw, feel free to add more maple syrup. This helps balance the tartness of the cranberries, giving you that perfect sweet-tart combination.
• Chill before serving – Letting your slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This extra step enhances the taste and makes it even more refreshing!
• Customize your nuts – While almonds are delicious, try using walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique texture and taste, making your slaw versatile.
• Double the vinaigrette – If you like your slaw a bit saucier, don’t hesitate to double the vinaigrette ingredients. A little extra dressing can elevate every bite!

How to Serve Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This vibrant slaw not only looks beautiful on the table but also offers a delightful crunch that complements any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Pomegranate seeds – These jewel-like seeds add a burst of color and an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing.
• Sunflower seeds – Sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the slaw while adding warmth and heartiness to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing – A light quinoa salad complements the slaw well, providing protein and fiber while keeping things fresh and healthy.
• Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs will provide a nice textural contrast to the crispness of the slaw, making for a delightful side combination.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is sure to impress! Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next gathering or as part of your weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! Making it ahead of time not only saves you effort when hosting but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store it:

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover slaw into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing

• While this slaw is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cranberries and almonds separately.
• Place dried cranberries and sliced almonds in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Thaw them in the fridge before adding to freshly made slaw.

Reheating

• The slaw is meant to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer a slightly warm dish, toss it gently in a pan over low heat just before serving, but be careful not to wilt the cabbage too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad!

Can I make Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your slaw a day in advance enhances the flavors. Just store it properly and add the dressing right before serving.

What can I substitute for almonds in Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

If nuts are a concern, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as delightful alternatives that will still provide that satisfying crunch!

How long does Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

Stored correctly in an airtight container, this slaw will stay fresh for about 3 days.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already plant-based since it uses maple syrup instead of honey and avoids all animal-derived ingredients!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this vibrant Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brightens up any meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just another weeknight dinner, this slaw is sure to impress. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—happy cooking!