Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful salad that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing side dish any time of year. Packed with crisp cabbage, sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and toasted almonds, this slaw combines a variety of textures and flavors that are both festive and satisfying. The light and tangy dressing ties the ingredients together beautifully, making it a perfect complement to turkey, chicken, or roasted vegetables.

This slaw stands out because of its colorful presentation and balance of flavors. Red and green cabbage provide a satisfying crunch, while the sweetness of apples and dried cranberries adds bursts of flavor in every bite. Toasted almonds lend a nutty richness that pairs perfectly with the bright, herbaceous notes of parsley. The dressing—made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic—adds a subtle tang and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the natural flavors of the slaw ingredients without overpowering them.

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is versatile and easy to prepare in advance. It’s ideal for holiday potlucks, family dinners, or a nutritious weekday side. Because the slaw keeps well in the refrigerator, it can be made a few hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. Additionally, the recipe can be adapted with seasonal fruits or nuts, making it a flexible option that can be customized to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients

To make Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, you will need:

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

Choosing crisp green and red cabbage ensures a satisfying crunch, while sweet apples and dried cranberries provide bursts of natural sweetness. Toasted almonds give a rich, nutty contrast, and fresh parsley adds a herbaceous note that brightens the flavors. The dressing combines the acidity of apple cider vinegar with the richness of olive oil, a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, and the subtle pungency of Dijon mustard and garlic to create a well-balanced, flavorful coating for the slaw.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables and fruit

Wash and shred the green and red cabbage, ensuring even pieces for a consistent texture. Peel and shred the carrots, then thinly slice the apples. Place all the shredded vegetables and apple slices into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Toast the almonds

Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: 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. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dressing should be balanced between tangy, sweet, and savory.

Step 4: Combine the slaw

Add the dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the shredded vegetables and apples. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly.

Step 5: Let it rest

For best results, let the slaw sit for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to absorb the dressing slightly, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Transfer the slaw to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra toasted almonds or parsley if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite main dishes. This slaw pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a fresh, crunchy addition to any meal.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

1. Use crisp, fresh produce: Fresh cabbage and apples ensure a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor.
2. Toast the almonds carefully: Watch them closely while toasting to avoid burning and to enhance their nutty flavor.
3. Balance the dressing: Adjust the maple syrup, vinegar, or mustard to suit your taste for sweetness or tang.
4. Make ahead: Prepare the slaw and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
5. Add seasonal variations: Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds or almonds for pecans to adapt the recipe for different occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy.

Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely. Pecans, walnuts, or cashews can be used instead of almonds for a different flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, but allow them to thaw and drain before adding to the slaw to prevent excess moisture.

How long will this slaw keep?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the slaw will stay fresh for up to 2–3 days.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you ensure the maple syrup is pure and the ingredients are plant-based.

Can I add other fruits?
Yes, pears, grapes, or oranges can be added for variety and extra seasonal flavors.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots?
Yes, pre-shredded vegetables save time and work well, but fresh shredding gives the best texture.

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Conclusion

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for holidays or everyday dining. With crunchy cabbage, sweet-tart cranberries, crisp toasted almonds, and a bright, tangy dressing, this slaw is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and versatile. Its vibrant colors and balanced flavors make it an excellent side dish for roasted meats, grilled poultry, or as a standalone salad. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, a festive gathering, or simply want a healthy and delicious salad, this Cranberry Almond Slaw is sure to impress and satisfy.