This apple cabbage slaw is crunchy, tangy, and full of flavor. Unlike a creamy classic coleslaw, our recipe has the addition of apples and sauerkraut.
It’s a great way to add more fresh vegetables and fruit to your meals and pairs beautifully with both casual backyard BBQs and next picnic gatherings. Serve it along side bbq ribs, roasted chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or a main dish at a summer BBQ.
It makes a perfect side dish or a filling lunch.
Fall Months and Gardening
It’s fall and the cabbage in my garden is ready. That means sauerkraut, cabbage rolls, cabbage casseroles, cabbage and kielbasa, cabbage soup, and lots of coleslaw.
This slaw adds a burst of flavor and a bit of crunch to any meal.
Unlike the usual slaw recipes you see, this recipe combines crisp crunchy cabbage, sweet apple, a hint of maple syrup, and the probiotic boost of sauerkraut for a unique flavor you’ll want to serve again and again. It’s quick and simple with lots of delicious flavor.
Simple Apple Cabbage Slaw Recipe for Everyday Meals
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Equipment
Ingredients
Slaw Ingredients
- 1 Cup Cabbage shredded, this can be green cabbage or red cabbage or a mixture of both
- 1 Medium Apple thin slices or julienned, (Granny Smith, Gala, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or green apples all work.)
- 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 Cup Sauerkraut
Salad Dressing Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
- 1 Tablespoon Mayonnaise
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and thinly sliced apple. Toss gently to mix.1 Cup Cabbage, 1 Medium Apple
- Stir in the sauerkraut and Parmesan cheese. These add both flavor and texture.2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, 1/4 Cup Sauerkraut
- In a small bowl add the maple syrup and mayonnaise over the slaw. Add salt and pepper to taste.1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup, 1 Tablespoon Mayonnaise, Salt, Pepper
- Pour the salad dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture, toss everything until evenly coated. The dressing lightly covers the cabbage and apple without weighing it down.
- For best flavor, let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it creamier. Add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise if you like a richer slaw.
- Change the cheese. Swap Parmesan for sharp cheddar or feta to give it a new dimension.
- Switch up the apples. Use tart apples instead of sweet ones if you prefer a tangier slaw. Granny Smith apples or green apples work beautifully. While sweet apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples add a sweeter note.
- Add onions. Mix in a sweet onion or red onion for extra crunch and depth of flavor. Thin slices work best for even distribution.
- Add a citrus kick. Stir in 1 teaspoon orange juice, lemon juice or lime juice for a bright, zesty flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples.
- Tangy twist. Add 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar to enhance the tangy dressing and give your slaw a refreshing punch.
- Spicy note. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat. Great for those who like a little spice in their slaw.
- Mustard flavor. Mix in 1 teaspoon little Dijon mustard for a savory, tangy layer that complements the creamy dressing.
- Nutty crunch. Add a handful of chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunchy texture and extra flavor.
Mason Jar Salad
Add the salad dressing to the bottom of the jar. Layer your slaw ingredients in a mason jar for easy storage. When you are ready to enjoy, stir in the salad dressing. I find I like to pour it out into a bowl as it is easier to stir and eat.
How to Serve
This apple cabbage slaw pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled or roasted meats, like chicken or pork
- Farm‑fresh sandwiches or wraps
- As a side for picnic or potluck meals
- On top of tacos or grain bowls for added crunch
Storage Tips
- Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
- If it sits too long, the apple may release extra juice. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
- This slaw is best served fresh, but it’s also a great make‑ahead dish for busy weeknight dinners.
This recipe is a simple apple coleslaw and a delicious twist on traditional coleslaw. Bringing together fresh, crisp ingredients with a little sweet and tangy flair. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for anyone looking for a fresh side that stands out from the typical slaw recipes out there.
