If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant side dish that adds the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors to your meal, this Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw is just what you need. It’s crisp, refreshing, and incredibly easy to throw together. Trust me, this will become your go-to slaw recipe!

Why You’ll Love Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw

This isn’t just any coleslaw—it’s packed with layers of flavor and texture that make every bite exciting. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Crisp & Refreshing: Apples, cabbage, and carrots create a crunchy texture that’s super satisfying.
Sweet & Tangy Balance: The dressing combines apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard for the perfect zing.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just minutes with simple ingredients.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, sandwich topping, or even a light lunch.
Healthy & Light: Made with fresh ingredients and a light dressing—no heavy mayo here!

Ingredients in Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw

Here’s what makes this slaw so delicious:

Apples: Crisp, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji add the perfect crunch.
Cabbage: A mix of green and purple cabbage for color and texture.
Carrots: Thinly shredded carrots bring a natural sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy kick that ties the flavors together.
Honey: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the acidity.
Dijon Mustard: Gives the dressing a subtle, savory depth.
Olive Oil: Helps blend everything together while keeping it light.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make this crisp and flavorful slaw:

Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the apples and cabbage, and shred the carrots.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the apples, cabbage, and carrots. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Let It Marinate: Allow the slaw to sit for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an even more refreshing taste.

How to Serve Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw

This slaw pairs beautifully with many dishes! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

With BBQ: The tangy flavors complement smoky grilled meats perfectly.
As a Sandwich Topper: Add a scoop to pulled pork or grilled chicken sandwiches.
With Tacos: A crunchy, fresh topping for fish or shrimp tacos.
Alongside Roasted Meats: A refreshing contrast to hearty dishes.
On Its Own: Enjoy as a light, flavorful salad.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: Prep the slaw ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Use a Mandoline: For extra-thin, even slices of apples and cabbage.
Swap the Sweetener: Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different twist.
Add Nuts or Seeds: Toss in sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
A1: Yes! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even Granny Smith apples work great.

Q2: Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours.

Q3: How do I prevent the apples from browning?
A3: Toss them with a little lemon juice before mixing them into the slaw.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
A4: Definitely! Thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes add extra crunch.

Q5: Is this slaw dairy-free?
A5: Yes, this recipe is completely dairy-free.

Q6: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A6: Of course! It saves time and works just as well.

Q7: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A7: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q8: Can I use a different vinegar?
A8: White wine vinegar or rice vinegar are good alternatives.

Q9: Can I make this slaw spicy?
A9: Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
A10: Serve chilled in a large bowl with tongs for easy serving.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw is the perfect balance of crisp, fresh, and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, packing it for lunch, or using it as a topping, it’s a versatile dish that never disappoints. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!

Happy cooking!

Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw

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Author: Maria
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

This Sweet and Tangy Apple Slaw is a refreshing, mayo-free coleslaw made with crisp Granny Smith apples, crunchy cabbage, and a light apple cider vinaigrette. It’s the perfect healthy side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled proteins

Instructions

Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, celery seed, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Slaw:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the julienned apple, shredded coleslaw mix, and green onions.
Toss & Serve:
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Garnish with extra green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

Make it ahead: This slaw can be made up to 1 day in advance, but add the apples just before serving to prevent browning.
Customize it: Add sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 120 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg