Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

In my kitchen, this delightful Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw always steals the show. Burst­ing with vibrant colors and those crunchy textures, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your feast. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just whipping up a weeknight meal, this slaw brings a refreshing twist that everyone will love. With its balance of sweet and savory, it’s a special treat that elevates any table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This slaw is not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to make, making it a fantastic option for both experienced cooks and kitchen newbies alike. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Plus, the combination of fresh vegetables and fruity sweetness is always a hit with both adults and kids.

"I brought this slaw to a family gathering, and the bowl was empty in no time! Everyone couldn’t stop complimenting it!" – A happy reader

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (it’s a fresh slaw!)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

The Cooking Process Explained

Making this Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is both quick and straightforward. You’ll start by prepping your veggies and fruits, then toast some almonds for added crunch, and lastly, whip up a simple dressing to bring it all together. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a beautiful slaw ready to impress your guests in no time!

What You’ll Need

• 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

Tip:

You can swap in different types of apples for a unique flavor profile, depending on what you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits:

1. Shred the green and red cabbage into thin strips.
2. Peel and shred the carrots.
3. Slice the apples into thin sticks and toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Toast the Almonds:

1. In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds for a few minutes until they are golden and aromatic. Watch them closely so they don’t burn!

Mix the Slaw:

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

Make the Dressing:

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

Dress the Slaw:

1. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently until everything is well coated.
2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This slaw is incredibly versatile! It makes a lovely side to roasted meats, sandwiches, or even tacos. Serve it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey for a colorful pop, or on a picnic table as a refreshing balance to rich barbecue dishes. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light lunch!

How to Store

After enjoying your delicious slaw, you may have some leftovers. To keep them fresh:

• Store any remaining slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• The salad may lose some crunch over time, so if possible, dress it just before serving.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Make Ahead: This slaw can be prepared a day in advance; just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
2. Customize Your Crunch: Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a unique flavor.
3. Mix Up the Dressing: A splash of citrus juice can brighten the dressing even more.
4. Serving Temperature: This slaw is delicious chilled or at room temperature, making it a flexible addition to any meal.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier option.
• Herb Fun: Try swapping in different herbs, like cilantro or mint, for an exciting flavor.
• Vegan Version: The current dressing is already vegan-friendly, but feel free to replace maple syrup with agave nectar if you wish!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a subtle kick.

Nutritional Information

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is not just a recipe, it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures that will impress anyone at your table. Enjoy every bite!