Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe
Short introduction
Table of Contents
Cranberry Almond Slaw is a bright and crunchy salad that brings a wonderful mix of flavors and textures to your holiday table. Packed with crispy cabbage, sweet apples, and tart cranberries, this slaw is perfect for adding a fresh element alongside your traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Not only does it look stunning, but it also brings a burst of flavor that can elevate any meal.
Why you’ll love it
This slaw recipe is not just delicious but also full of benefits. The combination of fresh vegetables and fruits makes it a healthy side dish that is low in calories and high in nutrients. The almonds add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats, while the cranberries contribute fiber and antioxidants. With easy prep time and simple ingredients, this slaw can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a tasty and festive addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 2 large carrots, shredded
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitutions & key variations
Feel free to customize the slaw to your liking. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or pecans work well too. For a sweeter slaw, you can add more maple syrup or even some honey. If you are looking for a different fruit to add, try pomegranate seeds or diced pears. Remember, the key is to enjoy it your way!
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits
- Shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips.
- Peel and shred the carrots.
- Slice the apples into thin sticks and toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir them constantly for a few minutes until they turn golden.
Step 3: Mix the Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, sliced apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Add the chopped parsley and toss everything together gently to combine.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt and pepper until everything is well mixed.
Step 5: Dress the Slaw
- Pour the dressing over the slaw.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Allow the slaw to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
Success tips
- Temperature: Serve the slaw chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Texture: Toss gently to avoid bruising the vegetables.
- Common mistakes: Avoid dressing the slaw too early, as the cabbage will release water and make it soggy.
How to serve
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is best served as a side dish during your Thanksgiving meal. Pair it with turkey, stuffing, or your favorite holiday dishes. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch or a refreshing snack at any time of the year.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, it’s best to enjoy it on the day it’s made for the best texture and flavor. Reheating is not necessary, as it is best served cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a day in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crunchy.
2. Can I use different fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite nuts or seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranates.
3. Is this slaw vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it does not include any animal products.
4. What can I serve this slaw with?
This slaw makes a great side for turkey, ham, or even as part of a holiday veggie platter.
5. How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Tossing the sliced apples with lemon juice right after cutting them will help prevent browning.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This slaw is rich in vitamins C and A, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for your holidays. The almonds add protein, while cranberries provide antioxidants.
Conclusion
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is an easy and healthy addition to your holiday menu. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try making it this Thanksgiving and impress your friends and family with this delightful dish!
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out these related recipes for more festive ideas:
Links to related recipes
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
- Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Classic Green Bean Almondine
- Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruits
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 2 large carrots, shredded
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- ½ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips.
- Peel and shred the carrots.
- Slice the apples into thin sticks and toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Toasting the Almonds
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat.
- Stir them constantly for a few minutes until they turn golden.
Mixing the Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, sliced apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Add the chopped parsley and toss everything together gently to combine.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt and pepper until everything is well mixed.
Dressing the Slaw
- Pour the dressing over the slaw.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Allow the slaw to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together nicely.