Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Poppy Seed Slaw Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy. The crispness of the cabbage and apples pairs beautifully with the chewiness of the cranberries and the nutty flavor of the poppy seeds. The creamy dressing is a great contrast to the crunchy veggies, creating a salad that’s both light and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that will brighten up any meal, whether it’s served as a side or enjoyed as a main on its own. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it a great option for busy days.

Ingredients

For the slaw:

4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple, or a mix of both)
2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), thinly sliced or julienned
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional, for extra color and texture)
1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds or chopped pecans (optional, for added crunch)

For the poppy seed dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a vegan version)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrots (if using), and sunflower seeds or chopped pecans (if using).
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. If you prefer a creamier slaw, add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to taste.
Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes (plus 15-20 minutes to chill)

Variations

Add protein: You can easily turn this salad into a main dish by adding grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for protein.
Swap the apples: If you prefer a different flavor, try using pears or other seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds.
Make it vegan: Use a vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup in the dressing for a completely plant-based option.
Use a different nut: Swap the sunflower seeds for almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
Add fresh herbs: Try tossing in a handful of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The slaw may soften over time, but the flavors will continue to develop.
Reheating: This is a cold salad, so it’s best enjoyed chilled. However, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare the slaw and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. The slaw can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

2. Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Yes, you can use red cabbage, Napa cabbage, or any variety of cabbage you prefer. A mix of green and red cabbage adds color and texture, but feel free to experiment.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are quite tart and may not have the same sweetness as dried cranberries. If you choose fresh cranberries, consider adding a bit more honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors.

4. Can I use a different dressing for this slaw?

Yes, you can substitute the poppy seed dressing with any other creamy dressing, such as a ranch dressing, a vinaigrette, or a tahini-based dressing for a unique twist.

5. How do I make the salad spicier?

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You could also include some thinly sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

6. Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Yes, feel free to add other fruits like grapes, oranges, or even sliced strawberries for a refreshing twist. You can also mix in some seasonal fruits depending on what’s available.

7. Can I use a different nut in the slaw?

Definitely! You can use any nuts you like, such as walnuts, almonds, or pistachios, for added crunch and flavor.

8. Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of any dressing or mayonnaise you use to ensure they are gluten-free.

9. Can I make this salad without the apples?

Yes, you can omit the apples and still have a delicious slaw. You can replace them with more shredded carrots, cabbage, or even add in more dried cranberries for sweetness.

10. Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes! Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even shredded cheddar would be a wonderful addition to this salad, adding creaminess and a bit of richness to balance the tartness of the apples and cranberries.

Conclusion

Apple Cranberry Poppy Seed Slaw Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy cabbage are enhanced by the tangy, creamy poppy seed dressing, making this salad a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main dish, this slaw is sure to become a new favorite. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant ingredients, it’s the ideal salad for any time of year!

Apple Cranberry Poppy Seed Slaw Salad

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Apple Cranberry Poppy Seed Slaw Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy cabbage, all tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, ideal for any occasion.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 15-20 minutes to chill)
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrots (if using), and sunflower seeds or chopped pecans (if using).

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. If you prefer a creamier slaw, add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to taste.
Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time. Just prepare the slaw and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Feel free to use a different variety of apples or nuts depending on your preferences.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg