Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw: 8 Fresh Ideas

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Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is a vibrant and healthy side dish, perfect for your holiday table. This colorful slaw combines crunchy cabbages, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries, creating a delightful medley that complements any Thanksgiving feast. Its festive colors and flavors will surely make it a centerpiece on your table. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw brings a burst of flavor and texture to your holiday celebrations. Here are a few reasons to love it:

It adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Combines sweet, tart, and nutty flavors in each bite.
Perfectly complements savory dishes like turkey.
It’s a vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table.
A healthy alternative to creamy salads.
Can be made ahead of time, saving you prep work on the day.
Offers a unique twist with almonds and cranberries.
Works as a versatile side or light main dish.

This is truly one of the best Thanksgiving slaw options you’ll find!

Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Gather these items:

4 cups Green Cabbage (Thinly sliced)
2 cups Red Cabbage (Thinly sliced)
1 cup Carrots (Shredded)
2 cups Apples (Honeycrisp or Gala, sliced)
1 cup Sliced Almonds (Toasted)
1 cup Dried Cranberries (Chopped raisins can be used)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
1/2 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
1 clove Garlic (Minced)
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

How to Make Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Step-by-Step

Step 1: Thinly slice the green and red cabbage, shred the carrots, and slice the apples. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, carrots, apples, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries together. Toss to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the slaw combination and toss gently until well coated.
Step 6: Allow the slaw to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Allowing the slaw to rest helps enhance the taste.
Try adding different nuts for a unique twist.
This slaw pairs wonderfully with roasted meats.

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Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Here are a few delicious serving ideas:

Serve alongside your favorite Thanksgiving turkey for a great contrast.
Top with extra toasted almonds for added crunch.
Pair with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

To keep your slaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Follow the final step of the instructions to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw?

The key to a perfect slaw lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using fresh ingredients and allowing the slaw to rest before serving enhances the overall taste, making it a delightful addition to your holiday table.

Can I make Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this slaw a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and let the flavors meld together for a delicious taste when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that all ingredients are fresh, and be cautious not to overdress the slaw, as it can become soggy. Toss just before serving for the best texture.

Variations of Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw You Can Try

Here are a few unique Thanksgiving slaw variations:

For a spicy kick, add some jalapeños or chili flakes.
Incorporate different nuts like walnuts or pecans for variety.
Try adding some citrus segments for a fresh twist.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or try making Salted Caramel Cookies for dessert!

Additionally, you can learn more about the health benefits of cabbage and how it can enhance your meals.