Cranberry orange winter slaw is a delightful and refreshing dish that can brighten up any meal. This vibrant slaw showcases the tartness of fresh cranberries combined with the sweet, citrusy notes of oranges, making it an ideal side for winter gatherings or family dinners. I remember the first time I made it for a holiday gathering; the colors and flavors were such a hit that it has since become a staple in our home.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many wonderful reasons to whip up this cranberry orange winter slaw. Not only is it incredibly quick to prepare, but it also offers a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your table. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, adds crunch to sandwiches, and makes a cheerful addition to potluck spreads. Rich in vitamins thanks to the fresh vegetables and fruits, it’s a wholesome choice for the whole family.
"This slaw was a surprise hit at our family party, everyone wanted the recipe!" says a happy home baker.
How to Make Easy Cranberry Orange Winter Slaw That Brightens Any Meal
Creating this easy cranberry orange winter slaw is a breeze. Start by finely shredding the green and red cabbage and grating or julienning the carrots. Next, prepare the cranberries and oranges, then mix everything together in a large bowl.
For the dressing, a simple combination of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, salt, and pepper will do the trick. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, then pour over your slaw mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each bite is coated in that delicious dressing. Let it sit for a bit so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather these items to make your slaw:
4 cups green cabbage (finely shredded),
2 cups red cabbage (finely shredded),
2 cups carrots (julienned or grated),
2 cups fresh cranberries (tart and ruby-red),
2 oranges (orange segments, peeled and sectioned),
4 stalks green onions (thinly sliced),
1/2 cup olive oil (smooth and light),
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar,
2 tablespoons honey (for gentle sweetness),
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a hint of warmth),
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a cozy spice note),
to taste salt,
to taste black pepper.
Feel free to substitute other citrus fruits or use dried cranberries if you’re in a pinch!
Directions
- Start by preparing the vegetables. Finely shred the green and red cabbage, then julienne or grate the carrots.
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and set them aside.
- Peel and segment the oranges, ensuring you catch any juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, cranberries, orange segments, and sliced green onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
- Allow the slaw to rest for about 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve Easy Cranberry Orange Winter Slaw That Brightens Any Meal
This slaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled fish for a vibrant contrast. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch topped with nuts or seeds for added crunch. For family gatherings, consider muffin or mini bento cakes to round out the meal.
How to Store
Cranberry orange winter slaw is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. If you want to enjoy it later, note that the slaw may become a little softer as it sits, so you might consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Tips to Make
For the best results, use fresh and firm vegetables. Rinsing the cranberries is essential for flavor, while the oranges should be at their peak ripeness to impart that sweet juiciness. If you’re looking for shortcuts, pre-shredded cabbage and pre-peeled oranges can save time without sacrificing taste.
Variations
Get creative with this slaw! You can substitute apples for the oranges for a different flavor profile. To add protein, mix in some chopped nuts or even cooked chicken. For a spicier kick, add a touch of jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to the dressing. This recipe is versatile, accommodating various dietary preferences effortlessly.
FAQs
Can this slaw be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for prepping ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Just thaw them before use in the slaw.
How long does this slaw last?
Stored properly, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave can be used as a great alternative for those looking for vegan options.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you enjoyed this slaw, you might also love our delicious protein muffins or check out our mini bento cake recipe for a fun twist to your gatherings. Explore more recipes like the cottage cheese quiche or the smash cake that are perfect for the family.
Be sure to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Cranberry Orange Winter Slaw
Ingredients
Method
- Finely shred the green and red cabbage, then julienne or grate the carrots.
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and set them aside.
- Peel and segment the oranges, ensuring you catch any juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, cranberries, orange segments, and sliced green onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
- Allow the slaw to rest for about 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.