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Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Stephanie
April 25, 2026
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Crispy red cabbage and apple slaw in a bowl with a fresh garnish

Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw is a refreshing and colorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the crunchiness of red cabbage and the sweetness of apples, this slaw becomes a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to make and offers a delightful balance of flavors that your family will love. Enjoy this nutritious, vibrant dish at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

  • Bursting with fresh flavors from crunchy veggies and fruits
  • Perfect for quick meal prep or as a side dish for weeknight dinners
  • Can be made in advance for busy days
  • Family-friendly and appealing to both adults and kids
  • Leftovers make for a delicious lunch the next day

Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Ingredients Needed

Veggies and Fruits

  • 4 cups Red Cabbage (shredded finely)
  • 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (sliced into thin matchsticks)
  • 1 small Red Onion (thinly sliced)

Herbs

  • 1/4 cup Cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Mint (fresh, roughly chopped)

Spices

  • 1 small Jalapeño (finely chopped, seeded for less heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Lime Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (can substitute with plant-based mayo)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by finely shredding the red cabbage and slicing the apples into thin matchsticks. Thinly slice the red onion.

2. Chop the Fresh Herbs

Roughly chop the cilantro and mint. Finely chop the jalapeño, seeding it for a milder flavor if desired.

3. Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the lime zest, lime juice, and mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth.

4. Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded cabbage, apple matchsticks, red onion, herbs, and jalapeño to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.

5. Season to Taste

Finally, season the slaw with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.


Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

  • Serve as a vibrant side dish with grilled meats or fish
  • Use as a topping for tacos or sandwiches
  • Pair with your favorite barbecue for a refreshing contrast
  • Enjoy alongside a crisp glass of iced tea or lemonade

Tips for Success with Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

  • For the best texture, prepare the slaw shortly before serving to maintain its crunch.
  • Adjust the jalapeño based on your heat preference; use fresh or dried chili flakes for extra spice.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for the best flavor.
  • Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.

Variations

Here are a few easy ways to change it up:

  • Substitute the Granny Smith apples with sweet apples like Fuji for a different flavor profile.
  • Add shredded carrots for additional sweetness and color.
  • Incorporate some sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.

Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.

What’s the best way to store leftover slaw?

Store leftover crispy red cabbage and apple slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld but add the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp.

What can I serve this slaw with?

This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing side for barbecues.

Is this slaw gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this slaw are naturally gluten-free.
Crispy red cabbage and apple slaw in a bowl with a fresh garnish

Crispy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

A refreshing and colorful side dish made with crunchy red cabbage and sweet apples, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Salad
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Veggies and Fruits
  • 4 cups Red Cabbage (shredded finely)
  • 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (sliced into thin matchsticks)
  • 1 small Red Onion (thinly sliced)
Herbs
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Mint (fresh, roughly chopped)
Spices
  • 1 small Jalapeño (finely chopped, seeded for less heat) Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt To taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (can substitute with plant-based mayo)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Finely shred the red cabbage and slice the apples into thin matchsticks.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion.
Chopping
  1. Roughly chop the cilantro and mint.
  2. Finely chop the jalapeño, seeding it for a milder flavor if desired.
Dressing
  1. In a large bowl, combine the lime zest, lime juice, and mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth.
Mixing
  1. Add the shredded cabbage, apple matchsticks, red onion, herbs, and jalapeño to the bowl with the dressing.
  2. Toss everything together until well coated.
Seasoning
  1. Season the slaw with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.

Notes

For best texture, prepare the slaw shortly before serving to maintain its crunch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Written By

Stephanie Mitchell

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