As the autumn leaves begin to fall and the days grow shorter, I find myself craving dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. Enter the Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw—a vibrant and refreshing salad that effortlessly complements your holiday spread. With crisp cabbage, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted almonds, this slaw not only adds a splash of color to your table, but it also offers a healthy, lighter alternative to heavier Thanksgiving fare. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both seasoned home chefs and those just starting their culinary adventures. Are you ready to discover how to bring this dazzling dish to life and enjoy its delightful crunch?
Why is Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Special?
Vibrant colors and flavors: This slaw adds a festive touch with its eye-catching blend of red, green, and orange hues.
Nutritious benefits: Packed with fiber-rich veggies and immune-boosting cranberries, it’s a guilt-free addition to your holiday table.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy home cooks looking to impress without the stress.
Versatile possibilities: Customize with ingredients like feta or pomegranate for added flair; it’s adaptable for various dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Guests will appreciate this light, refreshing contrast to heavier dishes, making it an instant favorite at your feast.
Want to explore more amazing salads? Check out our crunchy coleslaw and elevate your meals this season!
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Ingredients
• Whip up this refreshing delight in no time!
For the Slaw
- Shredded Green Cabbage – Provides crunch and mild flavor, perfect for holding up after dressing.
- Shredded Red Cabbage – Adds color and a slight peppery flavor, enhancing the dish’s festive appeal.
- Shredded Carrots – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color, making every bite a delight.
- Medium Apples (Honeycrisp or Gala) – Offers a sweet, juicy bite; use firm apples for the best texture.
- Sliced Almonds (toasted) – Introduces a nutty crunch; toasting enhances their flavor beautifully.
- Dried Cranberries – Sweet-tart bites that perfectly complement the slaw’s other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Lends freshness and a touch of green, balancing the sweetness.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and smoothness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides necessary tanginess, balancing the natural sweetness of the slaw.
- Maple Syrup – Adds a touch of sweetness; it brings depth compared to regular sugar.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a hint of spice and helps emulsify the dressing for a creamy finish.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances the overall flavor, making the dressing irresistible.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to your personal taste.
Now that you have all the ingredients laid out, you’re one step closer to creating this delightful Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw that promises to brighten your feast!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits
Start by shredding the green and red cabbage thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. Next, peel and shred the carrots, adding a vibrant touch to your slaw. For the apples, slice them into thin sticks and toss them with a little lemon juice to keep them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the almonds, making your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw even more delicious.
Step 3: Combine Slaw Elements
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, carrots, apple sticks, dried cranberries, and the toasted almonds. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix thoroughly. Adding the chopped parsley at this stage will brighten the flavors and colors of your slaw, making it visually appealing.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will provide a tangy contrast to the sweet and crunchy elements in the Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, so taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Dress the Slaw
Drizzle the dressing over your slaw mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Allow the slaw to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving; this resting period will let the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining the crispness of the cabbage and carrots, resulting in a delightful and refreshing dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shred the cabbages and carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. Additionally, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just give it a good whisk before using. To prevent the apples from browning, slice them just before assembling or toss them with lemon juice and store in a separate container. When ready to serve, simply combine the slaw ingredients with the dressing, and you’ll have a vibrant, refreshing dish that saves you time, letting you enjoy the festivities stress-free!
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Variations
Feel free to get creative with your slaw and customize it to suit your taste!
-
Nut-Free Swap: Replace almonds with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
This change keeps the slaw airy and adds a different nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cranberries. -
Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced celery into the mix for an appealing bite.
The crisp texture of celery adds another layer of freshness, making your slaw even more invigorating. -
Pomegranate Burst: Toss in pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and a juicy surprise.
Their sweet-tart flavor complements the slaw perfectly, elevating your dish and delighting your guests. -
Creamy Twist: Crumble feta cheese over the top for a non-vegan twist, adding creaminess to each bite.
This variation creates a beautiful contrast of flavors, giving your slaw an indulgent edge. -
Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh mint to add a refreshing twist to the flavors.
Mint brings a bright and aromatic kick, enhancing the overall experience of this holiday dish. -
Sweetness Boost: Increase maple syrup in the dressing for a sweeter slaw tailored to your taste.
A touch more sweetness can make the slaw even more enticing, perfect for those who enjoy indulging during the holidays. -
Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a touch of warmth.
This variation introduces a subtle heat that balances out the sweetness of the cranberries and apples. -
Vegan Variation: Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener option.
Agave syrup provides a similar sweetness while keeping your slaw aligned with plant-based values.
Want to enhance your Thanksgiving spread even more? Pair it with our delicious roasted turkey recipe for a festive feast!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw
-
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, leftover slaw can stay out for up to 2 hours; store in a cool place to maintain freshness.
-
Fridge: Store leftover Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. It may soften but will still taste great!
-
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the fresh vegetables will change upon thawing. Instead, consider preparing ingredients in advance.
-
Reheating: Serve the slaw cold for the best flavor and crunch. No reheating needed!
What to Serve with Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw
This slaw is not just a dish; it’s the vibrant heartbeat of your holiday spread, harmonizing flavors and textures beautifully.
- Roast Turkey: Pairs perfectly with the slaw’s tanginess, cutting through the richness while enhancing the meal’s festive spirit.
- Grilled Chicken: The light, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to juicy grilled chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Stuffed Squash: Complements hearty vegetarian options; the sweet and savory elements meld together, creating a balanced meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The slaw’s acidity brightens the dish, providing a refreshing bite that balances the creaminess of the potatoes.
- Green Beans Almondine: Nutty and crunchy, this side dish echoes the toasted almonds in the slaw, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It’s a delightful duo!
- Sparkling Cider: A light, bubbly drink adds a celebratory touch, enhancing the slaw’s bright flavors with every sip.
- Pumpkin Pie: End your meal with this classic dessert; the slaw’s freshness between bites will keep your palate happy throughout the feast.
- Cheese Plate: A simple yet elegant addition; the slaw’s crunch pairs well with various cheeses, making for an inviting appetizer.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw
-
Sharp Tools: Use a sharp knife or mandoline for slicing vegetables. This ensures even cuts and enhances the presentation of your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw.
-
Timing is Key: Mix the slaw and dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the cabbage and carrots. Pre-dressing may lead to a soggy slaw.
-
Flavor Adjustment: Feel free to tweak the sweetness of the dressing with additional maple syrup, especially if you prefer a sweeter slaw.
-
Nut-Free Option: For a nut-free version, substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both offer a delightful crunch without allergens.
-
Add Freshness: Incorporate thinly sliced celery or pomegranate seeds for extra texture and a burst of color, enhancing the overall appeal of your slaw.
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the slaw?
I recommend using both green and red cabbage for a vibrant appearance and varied flavor profile. Green cabbage provides a mild crunch, while red cabbage adds a slight peppery flavor and a pop of color, creating a beautiful contrast in your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw.
How should I store leftovers of the slaw?
To enjoy your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw for a couple of days, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 1-2 days; however, keep in mind that while the taste will remain delightful, the texture will soften over time.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw?
Freezing this slaw is not recommended because the fresh vegetables will become mushy upon thawing, losing that fantastic crunch. Instead, you can prepare the ingredients separately and freeze them. Store shredded cabbage, carrots, and toasted almonds in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the slaw, simply defrost the ingredients, toss them together, and make the dressing fresh!
What should I do if my slaw dressing is too sour?
If you find your dressing is a bit too tangy for your taste, don’t worry! Start by adding a teaspoon of maple syrup to balance the flavors. Whisk it in and taste again; repeat until it reaches your desired sweetness. You can also add an extra drizzle of olive oil to mellow out the acidity.
Is this slaw suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! For a nut-free version of the Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, simply swap the toasted almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both options provide a lovely crunch without the risk of allergens, making it an inclusive dish for all your guests.
Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw That Brightens Your Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by shredding the green and red cabbage thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Peel and shred the carrots.
- Slice the apples into thin sticks and toss them with lemon juice.
- In a dry skillet, toast the sliced almonds for about 3-5 minutes until golden.
- Combine the cabbage, carrots, apple sticks, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently.
- Allow the slaw to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Leave a Reply