Creamy Apple Coleslaw

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Creamy Apple Coleslaw – The Perfect Crunchy and Refreshing Side Dish

If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or BBQ favorites, this Creamy Apple Coleslaw is exactly what you need. It combines the crisp texture of cabbage and carrots with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh apples and a smooth, tangy dressing.

This apple coleslaw is one of those versatile recipes that’s great for summer picnics, potlucks, or even as a light side dish for family dinners. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and tastes even better after chilling — allowing all those fresh flavors to blend perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Made with a simple bag of coleslaw mix and a handful of pantry ingredients.
  • Perfectly balanced flavor: Creamy, tangy, and just a hint of sweetness from the apples.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Stays crisp and fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 pound coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
  • 1 small bunch scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, finely chopped
  • 1 red apple, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing:
    In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), sugar, vinegar, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference — add a little more lime for tang or sugar for sweetness if desired.
  2. Prep the produce:
    Core and finely chop the apples. Slice the scallions thinly and set them aside.
  3. Combine everything:
    In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, chopped apples, and scallions. Pour the creamy dressing over the top.
  4. Toss and serve:
    Gently toss the ingredients until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Season with a little more salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Chill or serve right away:
    You can serve the coleslaw immediately for a crisp and creamy texture, or cover and refrigerate it for 1–2 hours to let the flavors develop further.

Tips and Variations

  • Add a crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or toasted pecans for extra texture.
  • Make it lighter: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo and sour cream.
  • Sweeten it naturally: Skip the sugar and add a drizzle of honey instead.
  • Flavor twist: Swap lime juice for lemon juice or a splash of orange juice for a different citrus note.

Serving Ideas

This creamy apple coleslaw is a refreshing complement to:

  • Grilled chicken or fish
  • Pulled beef sandwiches
  • Baked potatoes
  • Burgers and BBQ plates

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly over time.

 

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