Slaws

Cranberry Orange Slaw

Name: Cranberry Orange Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberries; 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar; 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons (30g) apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cabbage; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup (30g) grated orange zest; 2 tablespoons (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts

By Quinn Ainsworth · June 19, 2026 · Slaws

Prep15 min

Cook0 min

Total45 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I made a cranberry slaw for a holiday gathering. The combination of the tart cranberries, the sweetness of the orange, and the crunch of the fresh vegetables was a game-changer for my side dish repertoire. Since then, I've experimented with various versions, but this Cranberry Orange Slaw remains a favorite. It's incredibly easy to prepare, and the best part is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days or large gatherings.

The beauty of this slaw lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Using seasonal cranberries and oranges ensures that the flavors are vibrant and authentic. I also love that this recipe allows for a bit of customization - you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, and even add in some grated ginger for an extra kick.

What I think sets this slaw apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the dressing, the crunch of the cabbage, and the pop of freshness from the herbs all come together to create a side dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you're serving it at a holiday dinner, a picnic, or just a weeknight meal, this Cranberry Orange Slaw is sure to be a hit.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making this delicious slaw, from preparing the ingredients to the final dressing. I'll also share some tips and variations to help you make the most out of this recipe and adapt it to your taste preferences.

So, let's get started and make this wonderful Cranberry Orange Slaw together! It's a recipe that I'm sure will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Slaw is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools.
The slaw is perfect for making ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or large gatherings.
The combination of flavors and textures in this slaw is both refreshing and satisfying, making it a great side dish for any meal.
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the amount of sugar and add in other ingredients to suit your taste.
This slaw is a great way to use up fresh and seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste and supporting local farmers.
The slaw is also very versatile, and can be served as a side dish, used as a topping for salads or sandwiches, or even as a snack on its own.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great slaw is in the balance of flavors and textures. In this recipe, the tartness of the cranberries is balanced by the sweetness of the orange, while the crunch of the cabbage and the freshness of the herbs add depth and freshness. The dressing, made with a combination of mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar, brings everything together, adding a creamy and tangy element to the slaw.

The technique of massaging the cabbage before adding the dressing is also crucial. This step helps to break down the cell walls of the cabbage, making it softer and more receptive to the flavors of the dressing. It's a simple step that makes a big difference in the final texture of the slaw.

Finally, the use of fresh and seasonal ingredients is what really makes this slaw shine. The flavors are more vibrant, the textures are more interesting, and the overall experience is more satisfying. By using the best ingredients available, you'll be able to create a slaw that's not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Overall, this Cranberry Orange Slaw is a masterclass in balance and harmony. Each ingredient plays a vital role, and the techniques used to prepare them help to bring out the best in each component. The result is a side dish that's both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Cranberry Orange Slaw, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including fresh cranberries, orange zest, cabbage, and a few basic pantry staples. Be sure to choose the freshest ingredients possible, as this will make a big difference in the final flavor and texture of the slaw.

When shopping for the ingredients, look for cranberries that are firm and plump, with no signs of mold or soft spots. For the cabbage, choose a head that is dense and heavy, with crisp leaves. The orange zest should be freshly grated, using a fine grater or zester to get the best flavor.

1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberriesCranberries are the star of this slaw, providing a tart and tangy flavor. Be sure to choose fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugarThe sugar helps to balance out the tartness of the cranberries, adding a touch of sweetness to the slaw. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaiseThe mayonnaise adds a creamy element to the slaw, helping to bring all the flavors together. Choose a high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) apple cider vinegarThe apple cider vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the slaw, helping to balance out the flavors. You can also use white wine vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute.
1/2 teaspoon saltThe salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, adding depth and complexity to the slaw. Use a high-quality salt, such as kosher or sea salt, for the best flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperThe black pepper adds a touch of spice and warmth to the slaw, helping to balance out the flavors. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
1/2 cup (60g) shredded cabbageThe cabbage provides a crunchy texture to the slaw, helping to add depth and interest. Choose a dense and heavy head of cabbage for the best flavor and texture.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsleyThe parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the slaw, helping to balance out the flavors. Choose fresh parsley for the best flavor and texture.
1/4 cup (30g) grated orange zestThe orange zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the slaw, helping to balance out the flavors. Choose a fresh and high-quality orange for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) chopped pecans or walnutsThe nuts add a crunchy texture and a touch of nutty flavor to the slaw, helping to add depth and interest. Choose your favorite type of nut for the best flavor and texture.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlFine grater or zesterCutting boardChef's knifeMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Cranberry Orange Slaw

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
2
Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl and massage it with your hands for about 2-3 minutes, until it starts to soften and becomes more pliable.
3
Add the chopped parsley, grated orange zest, and chopped nuts to the bowl and stir until well combined.
4
Add the fresh or frozen cranberries to the bowl and stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the slaw.
5
Taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more sugar, salt, or pepper to taste.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7
Just before serving, give the slaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8
Serve the slaw chilled, garnished with additional parsley or orange zest if desired.
9
To make ahead, prepare the slaw up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
10
To freeze, prepare the slaw and transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Expert Tips

Use fresh and seasonal ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Don't over-massage the cabbage, as it can become too soft and soggy.
Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, depending on the sweetness of the cranberries and the orange zest.
Add other ingredients to customize the slaw to your taste, such as grated ginger or chopped apples.
Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze for up to 2 months.
Use a high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
Whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using old or low-quality ingredients, which can result in a slaw that is bland and unappetizing.
Over-massaging the cabbage, which can make it too soft and soggy.
Not adjusting the seasoning to taste, which can result in a slaw that is too sweet or too tangy.
Not refrigerating the slaw for at least 30 minutes, which can prevent the flavors from melding together.
Not stirring the slaw well before serving, which can result in a slaw that is unevenly dressed.
Freezing the slaw without proper wrapping or container, which can cause freezer burn and affect the texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Add grated ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
Use different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add chopped apples or pears for extra sweetness and texture.
Use different types of citrus zest, such as lemon or lime, for a unique flavor.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
Use a different type of vinegar, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar, for a unique flavor.

What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Slaw

This Cranberry Orange Slaw is perfect as a side dish for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to special holiday gatherings. It's also a great topping for salads, sandwiches, and wraps, and can even be served as a snack on its own.

Some ideas for serving this slaw include:

- As a side dish for roasted chicken or pork

- As a topping for green salads or grain salads

- As a filling for sandwiches or wraps

- As a snack on its own, paired with crackers or chips

Serve as a side dish for roasted chicken or porkUse as a topping for green salads or grain saladsAdd to sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor and textureServe as a snack on its own, paired with crackers or chips

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Cranberry Orange Slaw can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply prepare the slaw, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

To freeze, prepare the slaw and transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

When storing the slaw, be sure to keep it in a covered container to prevent it from drying out. You can also add a sprinkle of water or a squeeze of fresh orange juice to the slaw to help keep it fresh and moist.

Reheating the slaw is not necessary, as it's best served chilled. However, if you prefer to serve it at room temperature, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cranberries should I use?

You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this slaw up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I freeze this slaw?

Yes, you can freeze this slaw for up to 2 months. Simply prepare the slaw, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze until ready to serve.

What type of nuts can I use?

You can use any type of nut you like, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Simply chop them up and add them to the slaw.

Can I adjust the amount of sugar?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet slaw, you can reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.

What type of citrus zest can I use?

You can use any type of citrus zest you like, such as orange, lemon, or lime. Simply grate the zest using a fine grater or zester and add it to the slaw.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the slaw?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to customize the slaw to your taste. Some ideas include grated ginger, chopped apples or pears, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

How long does this slaw keep?

This slaw will keep for up to a day in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer. Be sure to store it in a covered container to prevent it from drying out.

The Full Recipe

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