Crisp Cabbage & Fresh Apple Slaw

I made this crunchy apple slaw one weekend when I wanted something fresh and colorful to serve alongside dinner. I had a couple of crisp apples in the kitchen and a head of cabbage in the fridge, so I tossed them together with a creamy, tangy dressing.

It was such a simple side, but everyone kept going back for more. The sweet apples, crunchy cabbage, fresh carrots, and bright dressing make this slaw refreshing without feeling heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, crunchy, and colorful
• Sweet apples balance the tangy dressing
• Takes only about 15 minutes to prepare
• Perfect for BBQs, sandwiches, and family dinners
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups finely shredded purple cabbage
• 2 crisp apples, thinly sliced or julienned
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts, optional

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Add the green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, red onion, and parsley to a large mixing bowl.

Slice the apples just before assembling the slaw so they stay crisp and fresh.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking.

3. Combine Everything

Add the sliced apples to the cabbage mixture.

Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate the slaw for 20–30 minutes before serving.

Just before serving, sprinkle with sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts if desired.

My Tips

Choose firm, crisp apples that won’t become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples are excellent choices.

Slice the cabbage very thinly for the best texture.

If you’re making the slaw several hours ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss everything together shortly before serving.

For extra crunch, add toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.

Easy Variations

Lighter Slaw: Replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

Extra Tangy: Add another tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Sweet & Nutty: Add dried cranberries and toasted pecans.

Creamy Apple Slaw: Use a little extra dressing and let it chill for 30 minutes before serving.

No-Mayo Version: Combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey for a fresh yogurt-based dressing.

What to Serve With It

This slaw is perfect alongside grilled chicken, burgers, pulled pork, grilled fish, or crispy chicken sandwiches.

I also love spooning it into wraps and tacos for a fresh, crunchy layer.

Make-Ahead & Storage

The dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

For the freshest texture, keep the dressing separate from the vegetables until you’re ready to serve.

Once dressed, the slaw is best enjoyed within 24 hours, although leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 11g

Nutrition is an estimate and will vary depending on the mayonnaise, apples, and amount of dressing used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples work best for apple slaw?
Crisp varieties such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady work especially well.

How do I keep the apples from turning brown?
Toss the sliced apples with a little lemon juice before adding them to the slaw.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes. For the crunchiest result, prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them shortly before serving.

Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt makes an excellent lighter and tangy alternative.