Ultimate Apple Coleslaw Recipe — Sweet & Tangy Fall Salad (Easy Dressing)

If you love crunchy autumn flavors, this Apple Coleslaw Recipe is going to be your new go-to side — tangy Granny Smith apples, crisp cabbage, and a warm, sweet dressing that actually sings. I tossed this together after a farmer’s market impulse buy and—true story—my kiddo declared it “cozy orchard” and ran back for seconds. Worth it.

Why you’ll fall for this Apple coleslaw (and why it’s healthy)

This isn’t boring mayo-only slaw. It balances bright vinegar, a touch of sweetness, and a creamy element so every bite feels fresh and satisfying.

• Fiber + vitamins: The coleslaw mix and apples give you crunch and nutrients.
• Lower-fat option: The olive oil + warm vinegar dressing cuts heavy calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-ahead magic: Flavors deepen in the fridge — perfect for potlucks.

Pro tip: If you want it lighter, swap half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt and still keep richness.

The quick origin story

Last fall I grabbed a Honeycrisp at the market and experimented. First round = dry dressing (oops). Round two = double the dressing and boom: perfect crisp-tang-sweet balance. Lesson: don’t be stingy with the vinaigrette. Trust me on this one.

What makes this a great Fall Apple Slaw

This version leans into seasonal warmth — a bit of spice from red pepper flakes, cider-y brightness, and the green-apple tartness that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, burgers, or on its own as a snack. Want to impress at Thanksgiving? Bring this instead of the usual potato dish. It’ll disappear.

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Ingredients (what you’ll need)

For the slaw:

• 1 bag (16 oz) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage & carrots)
• 1 Granny Smith apple, cut into thin matchsticks (a Sliced Apple Salad vibe)
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 5 green onions, thinly sliced

For the Apple Coleslaw Dressing:

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise (see note for vegan swap)

Heads-up: Dijon and mayo are usually gluten-free, but read labels if you’re strict.

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How to make this crunchy Apple Coleslaw Recipe Easy (step-by-step)

1. Toss the coleslaw mix, matchstick apples, celery, and green onions in a big bowl. Keep it airy.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat whisk together apple cider vinegar, sugar, olive oil, Dijon, and red pepper flakes. Heat it to a simmer until the sugar dissolves and the dressing smells slightly warm and cozy.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the mayonnaise until smooth — that’s your Apple Coleslaw Dressing. (No mayo? See the vegan tip below.)
4. Pour the warm dressing over the slaw and toss well so everything gets coated. Don’t be shy — this slaw likes its dressing.
5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour. Flavors meld and textures soften just enough while keeping crispness. Serve cold.

Cooking tip: Warm dressing slightly wilts the cabbage for the best texture — crisp, not crunchy like a carrot stick.

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Variations & swaps — make it yours

• No mayo / vegan: Use vegan mayo or swap the mayo for cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth.
• Lower sugar: Cut the sugar in the dressing to 1/3 cup and taste — add more if you want sweeter.
• Add fruit: Toss in dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive pop.
• Nutty crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely texture contrast.
• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or more red pepper flakes.
• Herby: Fold in chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh twist.

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How to serve this Fall Apple Coleslaw

This slaw plays well with lots of mains — think pulled pork sandwiches, roasted chicken, grilled sausages, or even as a crunchy topping on fish tacos.

• Family dinner? Serve as a bright side next to roasted sweet potatoes.
• Potluck? This one’s a Potluck Coleslaw dream — make it ahead, keep chilled, and it travels fine.
• Weeknight win? Use as a bed for sliced turkey or ham for a quick light dinner.

Serve tip: Garnish with extra green onion and a few apple slices for a pretty platter.

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Pro tips for the best results

• Don’t let the apples brown: Toss apple sticks with a squeeze of lemon if prepping ahead.
• Dressing ratio matters: If the slaw looks dry, add more of the warm Apple Coleslaw Dressing. You can always add, you can’t take away.
• Chill time = flavor time: Let it rest at least 1 hour; overnight is even better.
• Keep it crunchy: If making days ahead, add the apple matchsticks just before serving to maintain snap.
• Scale it up: Double the dressing for large crowds — this slaw drinks it up.

Bold tip: Always taste the dressing before pouring — adjust acidity or sweetness to your preference.

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FAQs — quick answers

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Storage & make-ahead

• Fridge: Airtight container, 3–5 days. If dressing separates, toss again before serving.
• Transport: Pack dressing separate from slaw for picnics to avoid sogginess, then toss onsite.
• Prep tip: Chop veggies ahead but hold off on tossing apples and dressing if you need maximum crispness.

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Nutrition notes & why it’s a “better” slaw

This Apple Coleslaw Recipe Easy version balances indulgence and health — olive oil for good fats, apples for fiber and antioxidants, and cabbage for vitamins. Swap sugar for a natural sweetener or reduce it if you want lower sugar.

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Fun twists to try (because why not?)

• Cherry boost: Stir in dried cherries or try a Cherry Coleslaw Recipe vibe by adding pitted fresh cherries and a touch of balsamic. (Yes, it’s delicious.)
• Cider kick: Replace some apple cider vinegar with apple cider for deeper fall flavor — think Apple Slaw Recipe Cider Vinegar but juicier.
• Smoky slaw: Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a barbecue-friendly version.

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Pairings that win every time

• BBQ pulled pork + this slaw = heaven.
• Roasted pork loin + slaw keeps things bright.
• Green bowls: Add a scoop to bowls of grains + roasted veggies for texture contrast.
• Sandwiches: Use as a crunchy sandwich topper instead of lettuce.

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Final thoughts — why this is the slaw you’ll make again and again

This Apple Coleslaw Recipe walks the line between cozy and refreshing. It’s sweet, tangy, slightly spicy, and very forgiving. Whether you’re looking for a Potluck Coleslaw that disappears fast or a bright side for weeknight dinners, this recipe delivers. Keep it in rotation — and don’t be surprised when friends ask for the recipe.

Go on — grab an apple, chop some cabbage, and let the fall flavors do the talking. 🍏🍂

Bold closing tip: If you want the dressing extra silky, blend it quickly in a small food processor before tossing — velvety perfection.

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