Name: Cranberry Pecan Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 2 cups shredded red cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

This vibrant cranberry pecan slaw is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy. It’s a colorful side dish that fits perfectly on holiday tables or as an everyday treat. With crisp cabbage, chewy dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, all tossed in a creamy yet zesty dressing, this slaw is as delicious as it is easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

The balance of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, sweet, and tangy—is incredibly satisfying.

It’s versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to sandwiches.

It can be made ahead, making it a stress-free addition to holiday feasts.

The fresh, vibrant ingredients add a pop of color to any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Slaw:

4 cups shredded green cabbage

2 cups shredded red cabbage

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped

1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Slaw Base:
In a large bowl, I like to combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, dried cranberries, pecans, and red onion (if I’m using it). Toss everything together until it’s well mixed.

Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy.

Combine and Chill:
I pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. After that, I cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Serve:
Just before serving, I give the slaw a quick toss. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a topping for sandwiches and tacos.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Fruit Boost: Add chopped apples or mandarin orange segments for extra sweetness and texture.

Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

Dairy-Free: Use a vegan mayo and skip the Greek yogurt to make it dairy-free.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for a hint of heat.

Herby Freshness: Toss in some chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the dressing softens the cabbage over time, I try to enjoy it sooner rather than later. This slaw is best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating.

FAQs

How can I toast pecans for this recipe?

I toast pecans by spreading them on a baking sheet and placing them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes! I like to prepare the slaw and dressing separately, combining them just before serving for maximum crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients (like mayonnaise and Dijon mustard) are certified gluten-free.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage?

Absolutely. Bagged coleslaw mix saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.

What can I serve with cranberry pecan slaw?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, pulled pork, or even veggie burgers.

Conclusion

This cranberry pecan slaw is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brightens up any meal. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual dinner, it’s sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, I find myself coming back to this recipe time and time again. Give it a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!

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