Apple Slaw Recipe
Introduction
Apple Slaw is a crisp and refreshing twist on classic coleslaw, blending tart Granny Smith apples with crunchy cabbage and a tangy dressing. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.

Ingredients
- 16 ounces coleslaw mix (about 3 cups shredded cabbage)
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, sliced thin into sticks
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced thin
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Core and slice the apples into thin slices, then cut into matchstick shapes (julienne). To prevent browning, place the apple sticks in a bowl of water with a dash of lemon juice while you prepare the rest of the slaw.
- Step 2: In a medium or large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, drained apples, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and celery seed if using, until smooth.
- Step 4: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Chill the slaw in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Step 6: Just before serving, garnish with toasted sliced almonds for a crunchy finish.
Tips & Variations
- For added sweetness, substitute one Granny Smith apple with a Fuji or Honeycrisp apple.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.
- If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try chopped pecans or walnuts instead of almonds.
Storage
Store leftover apple slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, this slaw is typically served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare apple slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. For best texture, add the almonds just before serving.
What can I substitute for coleslaw mix?
If you don’t have coleslaw mix, you can use shredded green cabbage and carrots prepared fresh to get a similar texture and flavor profile.
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Apple Slaw Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and crisp Apple Slaw combining crunchy cabbage, tart Granny Smith apples, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Perfect as a light side dish that can be prepared quickly and enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
Slaw Mix
- 16 ounces coleslaw mix (about 3 cups shredded cabbage)
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, sliced thin into sticks
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced thin
Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Garnish
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Core and slice the apples into thin slices and then julienne them into matchsticks. Place the apple slices in a bowl of water with a dash of lemon juice to prevent browning while preparing other ingredients.
- Combine Slaw and Apples: In a medium or large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, julienned apples, and sliced green onions. Toss everything together to mix evenly.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, stir or whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and celery seed if using. Ensure the dressing is well combined and smooth.
- Toss Slaw with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the apple slaw for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the slaw to become crisp and refreshing.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds over the top as a crunchy garnish to enhance texture and flavor.
Notes
- Soaking the apple slices in lemon water prevents browning and keeps the slaw visually appealing.
- To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
- You can adjust the sugar and vinegar in the dressing to taste for more sweetness or tanginess.
- Optional celery seed adds a subtle earthy flavor to the dressing.
- This slaw is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Apple slaw, coleslaw, crunchy salad, apple salad, side dish, healthy salad, vegetarian

