Every time I make this Apple Bacon Crunch Coleslaw, it brings back the kind of warm memories that make my heart swell. You know, the ones where you gather around the dinner table with family, sharing laughter and stories over hearty dishes. Growing up, my family often had coleslaw at every barbecue, and there was something truly special about those get-togethers. Mixing the crisp, fresh ingredients while reminiscing with my loved ones in the kitchen is a comfort that I cherish. This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially when the weather turns warm and picnic season is in full swing. I can already hear you saying, “This sounds great!” and believe me, you’re going to feel that same warmth and happiness once you try this recipe!
How to make Apple Bacon Crunch Coleslaw
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: This is the base of your coleslaw, providing that classic crunch we all love.
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage: It gives a beautiful color that makes the dish pop, not to mention it adds a slightly different flavor profile.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped: Broccoli adds a bit of heartiness and is an excellent boost of nutrition.
- 1 apple, thinly sliced: I prefer a tart apple like a Granny Smith, as it complements the flavors beautifully and provides that crisp sweetness.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Oh, the bacon! It adds that irresistible smoky flavor that just takes this coleslaw to another level.
- 1/2 cup toasted almond slices: These add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that balances the fruit and veggies.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: The onion adds a sharpness that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This is the base of our dressing, making everything creamy and dreamy.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: It gives a nice tangy punch that enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apple and the vinegar.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Cooking Steps
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Prepare the Veggies: Start by shredding the green and red cabbage if you haven’t already. I find that using a sharp knife or a mandoline makes the process quicker and easier. Combine these in a large bowl. Next, chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl too. Don’t hesitate to play around with the amounts based on what you have on hand!
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Slice the Apple: For the apple, I love to use a crisp variety like a Granny Smith. Just thinly slice the apple and toss it into the bowl with the other veggies. I like to leave the skin on for more color and nutrients, but feel free to peel it if you prefer.
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Add the Onions: Now, finely dice the red onion and toss that in as well. The onion’s flavor will mellow out a bit once it mixes with the dressing, so don’t worry if you’re not a huge fan of raw onions.
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Make the Dressing: In a different small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I always taste it as I go, adjusting the sweetness and acidity to my liking. This part is so satisfying—watching those ingredients blend together into a creamy dressing!
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Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, and with a large spoon or your hands, toss everything together gently until it’s all well coated. You want to ensure that every bit of your crunchy heavenly goodness gets that creamy dressing.
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Bacon and Almonds: Just before serving, crumble the crispy bacon slices over the salad with the toasted almond slices. This keeps the bacon nice and crunchy, which is what you want for that satisfying texture!
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Chill and Serve: If you can, let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but if you’re in a rush, it’s absolutely delicious right away!
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Taste Test: Before serving, give it another taste. You might find you want to add a little more salt, pepper, or honey.
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Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and extra flavor!
Why I Love Making This Dish: What makes this coleslaw special for me isn’t just the taste—it’s how it brings the family together and lights up faces at the dinner table. It’s a perfect side for every occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s refreshing and light, making it ideal for those hot summer days when you don’t want anything too heavy.
What You’ll Need: You’ll need a good sharp knife, a sturdy cutting board, and a couple of mixing bowls. A large one for the salad and a smaller one for the dressing. I do love using my trusty whisk—it just feels good in my hands. You might also want to have a salad tongs handy for serving. Trust me, these small tools help make everything feel more organized, and who doesn’t love a tidy kitchen?
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Crispy Bacon: For crispy bacon, I suggest baking it in the oven instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with foil, and lay the bacon strips flat. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. It’s easier, and the cleanup is a breeze!
- Stay Fresh: If you’re prepping ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy vegetables.
- Customize It: Feel free to alter the ingredients based on your family’s preferences. Add shredded carrots, raisins, or even some chopped nuts for a different flavor!
Serving Suggestions and Sides: This Apple Bacon Crunch Coleslaw pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or even alongside a hearty sandwich. I like to serve it with barbecued ribs or burgers during cookouts, and it’s a big hit every time! I also suggest adding a refreshing lemonade or iced tea to wash it down.
Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember that as the days go by, the cabbage may lose some crunch, but I promise it still tastes amazing! You can even add a sprinkle of fresh cabbage each day to keep it feeling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other types of apples? Yes, absolutely! I’ve tried this with Fuji and Honeycrisp apples, and both work wonderfully. Just choose a variety that you enjoy!
What if I don’t like mayonnaise? No problem! You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It adds creaminess without all the unnecessary calories.
How long can I keep this coleslaw? If stored properly in an airtight container, it should stay good for about 3 days. Just know that the veggies will become a bit softer over time, but the flavors will still be delightful!
This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I know you’re going to love it too! It’s simple, delicious, and oh-so-refreshing. When I served this to my family last week, they couldn’t stop talking about how delightful the flavors were, with just the right amount of crunch! It’s easy to prepare, and I’m so excited for you to give it a try. Let your family enjoy this Apple Bacon Crunch Coleslaw, and if they end up asking for seconds (just like mine always do), you can smile and bask in the glory of having made something truly special. Enjoy the cooking process, and let me know how it turns out!