Apple and Cabbage Slaw

Apple and Cabbage Slaw is a classic coleslaw recipe perfected.  Chunks of apples make this slaw a favorite in our family!

Apple and Cabbage Slaw

Memories of Coleslaw from my youth…

I never used to like coleslaw. Memories of coleslaw from my childhood are KFC dinners my Dad brought home, complete with mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls and soupy coleslaw. I don’t think my mom ever made coleslaw, and I was grateful since my only experience with slaw was the take out type!

Grown up Slaw

Fast forward several years later, when I hesitantly ate coleslaw at a local SLC restaurant, and loved it!  It was nothing like that drippy slaw from my youth.  The grown-up version of coleslaw in the restaurant was made with chunks of fruit and raisin, with a light, sweet  dressing. It was one of those recipes I knew had to be recreated at home. One bite of this quick and easy fruit filled slaw will convert you to being a fan for life!

Apple Coleslaw

Apple and Cabbage Slaw now a Classic Family Favorite!

I’ve been making this Apple Cabbage Slaw for years and it’s our family-favorite. The dressing is so, so easy to put together. Our  recipe for Apple and Cabbage Slaw consists of a few basic ingredients: cabbage, carrots, (or a precut bag of coleslaw mix), the dressing ingredients, fresh apples, golden raisins and a little celery seed. Mix the dressing up with a whisk, throw the cabbage and fruit into a bowl and toss together. That’s it! If you have 10 minutes, you can  make this amazing slaw.

coleslaw made with apples and golden raisinsColeslaw- the easiest side dish ever

Apple and Cabbage Slaw is probably the easiest side to a barbecue you will ever make. If you can chop and whisk, this salad will be your new go-to! It’s crunchy and a little creamy, sweet and a little tart. I think you’ll agree it’s the best slaw you’ve ever eaten, and for sure the best slaw you’ve ever made!  You’ll never, ever, turn your nose up to slaw again. Promise.

If you’re looking for other amazing recipes to serve as sides at your next barbecue, try Dutch Oven Molasses Baked Beans (can also be made in an oven), Mexican Street Corn Salad, or our absolute favorite Potato Salad!

Apple and Cabbage Slaw was originally posted in September 2009. Recipe post and photos have been updated. 

BBQ with Slaw

Apple and Cabbage Slaw

5 from 1 vote
Print Pin
Author: Si Foster
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
The best basic coleslaw, updated to include chunks of fresh apples and golden raisins. The dressing is light and tasty without overpowering the coleslaw!

Ingredients 

  • 1/2 large head cabbage, or 1 1/2 bags of coleslaw mix sold near bagged greens
  • 2 large carrots, grated (omit if using bagged mix)
  • 1-2 apples, I like Fuji washed, cored, cut into chunks ( peel on)
  • 1/3 cup Golden Raisins, more or less depending-if you are a raisin lover
  • 1/4 cup Craisins, optional
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise, not Light! I like Best Foods or Hellman's
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2-3 tablespoons sugar, to taste
  • 3 teaspoons celery seed

Instructions

  • Wash and chop cabbage. Place cabbage in large bowl.
  • Add carrots, apples, golden raisins, and Craisins (if using).
  • In separate small bowl, whisk the mayo, cider vinegar and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. If you like the dressing more tart, add vinegar, a tablespoon at a time. If you like your slaw dressing sweet, add more sugar. Whisk until sugar is dissolved
  • When the dressing is mixed well, add the celery seed.
  • Pour the dressing over the cabbage and fruit.
  • This salad is best when chilled for at least an hour, but can be made just before serving as well.

Notes

-This salad can be made a day ahead of serving. If making ahead, add the raisins and apples just before serving and toss again. If too much liquid has gathered, drain any excess off. 
-Make sure the celery seeds are not expired! This is an item that is often purchased, used and then pushed to the back of the cabinet for a year or two. Taste to make sure they are not bitter before using if the expiration date is close! I once added some bitter celery seeds and had to throw out an entire batch of coleslaw.

Did you make this recipe?

Be sure to leave a comment and give this recipe a rating, letting me know how you liked it. I’d love to see a photo, tag @abountifulkitchen on Instagram!