Winter Slaw with Apple Cider Dijon Dressing

Winter slaw is a type of salad primarily made from shredded cabbage and other crisp, crunchy vegetables. It often includes ingredients like kale, carrots, pears, pomegranate seeds, nuts such as pecans or walnuts, and sometimes onions or shallots.

Winter slaw has a fresh, crisp texture with a balance of sweet, tangy flavor. It’s quick, colorful, and a great way to keep veggies exciting during the colder months.

This slaw pairs beautifully with warm, hearty mains, such as roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even slow-cooked beef stew. The cool crunch contrasts well with creamy mashed potatoes and baked macaroni and cheese.

For lighter meals, the dish can be enjoyed with veggie burgers or served alongside a bowl of butternut squash soup. It also goes nicely with crusty garlic bread and pairs surprisingly well with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling cider.

Whether you’re setting up a comforting winter dinner or a simple weekday lunch, winter slaw fits right in with a variety of foods and drinks. Here’s how to make the winter slaw with apple cider Dijon dressing.

A crisp, colorful, refreshing winter slaw made with cabbage, apple, cranberries, and a bright mustard-cider dressing. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or as a lighter side next to rich festive dishes.

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooked time: 0 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes
• Calories: 165 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side dish

Ingredients

For the slaw:

• 3 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 crisp apple, thinly sliced or julienned
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for extra brightness)

Instructions

1. Add the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, apple, cranberries, seeds, and green onions to a large mixing bowl.
2. In a jar or small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon, honey, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate 20–30 minutes for a softer, more melded slaw.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 165
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 11 g
• Sodium: 215 mg

Notes

• For extra crunch, add more seeds or chopped nuts.
• Swap the apple for pear for a sweeter version.
• This slaw keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Perfect for turkey, ham, roast chicken, or vegetarian holiday spreads.