Name: Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe for a Fresh Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil); 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard); 2 cloves garlic (minced, or garlic powder); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (less if using table salt); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked); 1 medium green cabbage (or use red cabbage); 1 small red onion (or shallots); 1 cup dried cranberries (or raisins/chopped fresh apples); 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or use pecans/walnuts)

As the colors of autumn deepen, the kitchen fills with the earthy fragrances of Thanksgiving preparations. This year, I’m excited to share my Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe, a delightful twist on traditional holiday fare. This light and vibrant slaw combines crisp green cabbage, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy sliced almonds, all tossed in a tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Not only does it add a refreshing balance to the richness of typical Thanksgiving dishes, but it also comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect make-ahead option for those busy holiday schedules. Plus, it’s gluten-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it. Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving menu with this colorful side dish?

Why is this slaw a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a time-saver amidst holiday chaos.

Vibrant Colors: The mix of green cabbage, red cranberries, and golden almonds creates a visually stunning dish that brightens any Thanksgiving table.

Zesty Flavor: The homemade Apple Cider Vinaigrette balances sweetness with tang, elevating this slaw above standard side dishes.

Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in sliced radishes or swap cranberries for dried cherries for a personalized touch.

Healthy Choice: With its gluten-free and vegan-friendly profile, you can indulge without guilt, complementing heartier dishes like Chicken Curry Indian and Easy Meatloaf Recipe.

Elevate your holiday feast with this refreshing Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw!

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Ingredients

Ready to whip up your own delightful slaw? Here’s everything you need!

For the Vinaigrette

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps emulsify the vinaigrette; can be substituted with avocado oil for a unique flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides that essential tang; rice vinegar is a milder alternative.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens the vinaigrette; honey can stand in for a different sweetness profile.
Dijon Mustard – Offers tang and depth; feel free to use yellow mustard if needed.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; if fresh isn’t available, garlic powder will do just fine.
Kosher Salt – Balances flavors; you can use table salt, but remember to use less due to its finer grains.
Black Pepper – Adds a subtle heat; freshly cracked pepper will provide a better flavor punch.

For the Slaw

Green Cabbage – The main ingredient that offers crunch; consider adding red cabbage for some beautiful color.
Red Onion – Provides sharpness and adds color; shallots are a milder substitute that works wonderfully.
Dried Cranberries – Bring sweetness and a chewy texture; feel free to swap with raisins or chopped fresh apples.
Sliced Almonds – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; try using pecans or walnuts for a twist.

This light and fresh Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
In a mason jar, combine 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are well mixed. Set this tangy dressing aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Slaw Base
Take a medium green cabbage and slice it into quarters, removing the core. Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or mandoline, then place the vibrant green strands into a large mixing bowl. The crispness of the cabbage forms the perfect foundation for the Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw, so aim for even and thin slices for optimal texture.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Chop 1 small red onion and roughly chop a handful of fresh parsley. Toss the onion and parsley into the bowl with the shredded cabbage, adding 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of sliced almonds for crunch. Use clean hands or salad tongs to gently mix all the ingredients together, creating a colorful and inviting slaw that showcases the essence of the holiday season.

Step 4: Chill the Slaw
Once all the ingredients are combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the slaw in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to merge while keeping it cool and fresh until ready to serve. This resting time helps the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing the overall texture of your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw.

Step 5: Dress and Serve
Right before serving, retrieve the vinaigrette from the refrigerator. Shake it again to ensure everything is well blended, then pour it over the chilled slaw. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the bright, tangy dressing. Serve immediately or let it sit for up to 1 hour in the fridge to enhance the flavors before enjoying this delightful addition to your Thanksgiving feast.

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Variations

Feel free to put your personal spin on this slaw—it’s all about making it your own!

Dried Fruit: Swap out dried cranberries for dried cherries or fresh apple slices to introduce a different sweetness.
Nuts: Use toasted almonds or pecans for a richer flavor; toasted nuts add a delightful crunch that’s simply irresistible.

Consider enhancing the texture; toasted nuts not only provide crunch but also infuse a warm nuttiness that complements the slaw beautifully.

Extra Crunch: Add sliced radishes for a peppery bite and an exciting crunch that brightens up the dish even more.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or even cilantro for a lively flavor boost, giving that herbaceous freshness to each bite.

Herbs can truly elevate your slaw, bringing both color and flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the holiday vibe.

Creamy Touch: Add a dollop of vegan mayo or Greek yogurt for a creamier slaw that pairs wonderfully with the tangy vinaigrette.
Spice it Up: For a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha to give your slaw a spicy twist, perfect for those who love heat.

This spicy variation can transform your slaw into an exciting complement to milder main dishes like Teriyaki Ground Beef or classic turkey.

Color Burst: Swap half the green cabbage with red cabbage to add vibrant color and a slightly different flavor profile that’s visually striking on your table.

Now, go ahead and create a Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw that’s uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Prep Ahead: Prepare the slaw and vinaigrette up to 1-2 days in advance, storing them separately to keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy.
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain that delightful crunch in your slaw, dress it just before it’s time to serve.
Mix It Up: Consider adding shredded carrots or fresh herbs, such as cilantro, for another layer of flavor and freshness in your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw.
Superb Storage: If there are leftovers, store the salad and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Aim to eat the slaw within 1 day for the best texture.
Customization Opportunities: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients based on your preference; try using sliced radishes for an extra crunch or dried cherries for a different sweetness profile.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw recipe components are perfect for busy holiday planners! You can prepare the slaw ingredients (cabbage, red onion, cranberries, and almonds) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. The vinaigrette can be made up to 1 week ahead; just keep it in a separate jar and shake before use to revitalize the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, pour the chilled vinaigrette over the slaw, toss gently, and enjoy a fresh, vibrant dish that’s just as delicious as if made the same day!

What to Serve with Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

As the holidays approach, it’s time to think about creating a festive and balanced meal that delights the senses.

Roasted Turkey: Perfect for Thanksgiving, the juicy bird complements the slaw’s crunch with savory richness, creating a harmonious plate.
Stuffing: Savory herb stuffing brings comforting flavors, while the slaw adds a refreshing balance to the overall meal experience.
Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, offering a delightful contrast of flavors on your Thanksgiving table.
Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds echo the slaw’s textures and flavors, enhancing your holiday feast’s visual appeal.
Pumpkin Pie: End the meal on a sweet note; the creamy richness of pie pairs divinely with the slaw’s zesty brightness, making for a memorable dessert.
Sparkling Cider: For a festive drink, this bubbly beverage adds a touch of celebration and complements the slaw’s vibrant flavors splendidly.

Impress your guests with these thoughtful pairings that elevate your Thanksgiving gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw

Fridge: Store the prepared slaw in an airtight container for up to 1 day to maintain freshness and crunchiness. Dress it just before serving.

Dressing: The vinaigrette can be refrigerated in a separate container for up to 1 week, making it easy to prep ahead of time.

Make-Ahead: For optimum freshness, prepare the slaw and vinaigrette 1-2 days in advance, keeping them stored separately.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this slaw, as the cabbage and other vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh!

Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cabbage for my slaw?
Absolutely! When selecting green cabbage, look for firm heads that feel heavy for their size. The outer leaves should be crisp with no dark spots or wilting. If you’re feeling adventurous, including some red cabbage can add beautiful color and sweetness to your Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw.

How long can I store leftover slaw in the refrigerator?
The prepared slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. For the best texture, dress the slaw just before serving. If you dress it early, the cabbage may lose its crunch, so it’s best left undressed until the last moment.

Can I freeze leftover slaw?
I wouldn’t recommend it! Freezing this slaw isn’t ideal because the cabbage will lose its crunchy texture once thawed. Instead, embrace the freshness and enjoy it within a day after making it!

What can I do if my slaw turns out too salty?
Not to worry! If your slaw is too salty, try adding more shredded cabbage or fresh vegetables to dilute the saltiness. You can also mix in extra cranberries or apples for a sweeter balance. Taste as you go to achieve the flavor you love.

Can pets safely eat any ingredients in this slaw?
While the ingredients in the slaw are generally healthy, it’s important to keep your pets away from certain items like garlic and onions, as these can be toxic to them. If sharing with your furry friends, stick to plain cabbage or small amounts of unseasoned vegetables.

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
This Cranberry Almond Thanksgiving Slaw is inherently gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great side for various diets. Just ensure that any substitutes, like vinegar or sweeteners, are also aligned with these dietary preferences. Enjoy this refreshing slaw knowing it accommodates a wide variety of guests!