Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe is the perfect side dish for your holiday gatherings. It brings a delightful crunch and vibrant colors to your table, making it a standout addition to any Thanksgiving feast. With its combination of crisp veggies, sweet dried cranberries, and a zesty apple cider vinaigrette, this slaw balances out the heavier dishes often seen during celebrations. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh cabbage, apples, and tangy dressing creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an effortless addition to your holiday menu.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any festive occasion where you want a light, crunchy side.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with healthy ingredients like cabbage and apples, this slaw is both tasty and nutritious.
• Vegan-Friendly: A great option for those seeking plant-based sides without compromising on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this slaw, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables easy and ensures uniform pieces for even mixing.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk or fork: These tools are perfect for emulsifying the dressing ingredients into a smooth mixture.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, gather the following ingredients:

For the Slaw

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 2 large carrots, shredded
• 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits

• Shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips.
• Peel and shred the carrots.
• Slice the apples into thin sticks; toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

• Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden.

Step 3: Mix the Slaw

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
• Add the chopped parsley and toss gently to mix.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Dress the Slaw

• Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw as a refreshing complement to your holiday meal!

How to Serve Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw makes a vibrant addition to any holiday table. It pairs well with various main dishes and enhances the festive spirit with its colorful presentation.

Pair with Roasted Turkey

• Roasted turkey is a classic centerpiece for Thanksgiving. The slaw’s crunch complements the tender meat perfectly.

Serve alongside Stuffing

• The savory flavors of stuffing contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries in the slaw, creating a balanced plate.

Accompany with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken provides a lighter protein option that pairs nicely with the refreshing slaw, making for a delightful meal.

Add to a Holiday Buffet

• Include this slaw in your buffet spread. Its vibrant colors and textures will attract guests and offer a refreshing alternative to heavier dishes.

Perfect for Potlucks

• This slaw is easy to prepare in advance and transport, making it an excellent choice for potluck gatherings during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

To elevate your slaw even further, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cabbage and apples to ensure maximum crunch and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your dressing before adding it to the slaw; feel free to adjust maple syrup based on your desired sweetness.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the slaw to chill for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it extra refreshing.
• Experiment with Nuts: While almonds are delicious, try substituting walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Fruits: Consider adding sliced pears or mandarin oranges for added sweetness and variety.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the ingredients a day in advance but mix them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

Complement your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes enriched with garlic pair wonderfully with the tangy slaw.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crunchy, caramelized Brussels sprouts provide another layer of texture and flavor.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet potato dish topped with marshmallows offers a contrasting sweetness to your meal.
4. Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds echo the nutty flavor found in the slaw.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds a healthy grain option that balances out richer sides.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up sauces or gravies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Many overlook toasting the almonds. This step enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Always toast them until golden for a deeper taste.
• Not Letting It Sit: Serving immediately after mixing can lead to a soggy slaw. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin the slaw’s appeal. Always choose fresh, vibrant produce for the best results.
• Overdressing the Slaw: Too much dressing can make the slaw soggy. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach the desired flavor.
• Cutting Vegetables Unevenly: Inconsistent sizes can lead to uneven texture and taste. Aim for uniform cuts when shredding or slicing your ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slaw in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of vegetables.
• If you must freeze, separate components (e.g., dressings) and store separately.

Reheating Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm briefly, but it’s best served cold.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals, but be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat; stir gently if necessary, but again, cold is preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making this delightful slaw.

What makes this Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe unique?

This slaw combines sweet, crunchy elements with a tangy dressing, offering a refreshing contrast to traditional rich Thanksgiving dishes.

Can I customize the ingredients in this slaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other nuts or fruits like walnuts or oranges for a twist on flavors while keeping the base ingredients intact.

How do I ensure my apples stay fresh in the slaw?

Tossing apple slices with lemon juice right after cutting helps prevent browning and keeps them looking fresh longer.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This cranberry almond slaw is great for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

Certainly! You can substitute with savoy or napa cabbage for different textures while maintaining great flavor in your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is not only vibrant and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions beyond Thanksgiving. It’s an easy dish that can be customized with your favorite fruits and nuts. Try it out at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing addition to your holiday table. With its blend of crisp green and red cabbage, crunchy carrots, and sweet apples, this slaw brings a delightful contrast to traditional Thanksgiving dishes. The tangy apple cider vinaigrette complements the sweetness of dried cranberries and toasted almonds, making every bite a burst of flavor. Not only is it quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, but it’s also vegan-friendly and loaded with nutrients. Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts, potlucks, or any festive occasion, this slaw will impress your guests while offering a light and healthy side dish option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 2 large carrots, shredded
• 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Shred green and red cabbage into thin strips. Peel and shred carrots. Slice apples into sticks; toss with lemon juice.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden.
3. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, toasted almonds, cranberries, and parsley; toss gently.
4. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture; toss gently to coat. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No cooking involved
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg