When it comes to planning a Thanksgiving menu, fresh slaw may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But making a quick Thanksgiving slaw can provide you with a crisp, refreshing dish that balances a plate filled with roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving punch, and other rich holiday favorites.
Traditional salads like Caesar, cobb and caprese stacks aren’t always practical for a busy holiday meal. Most salads need to be prepared just before serving and eaten quickly before they begin to wilt. On Thanksgiving, when dishes are competing for oven space and food often sits out for hours, that’s one more task many home cooks don’t need. That’s why this colorful slaw deserves a place on the holiday table.
Thanksgiving Coleslaw: What Makes It Special
Packed with crunchy cabbage, candied pecans, and Craisins, this simple side dish delivers plenty of texture and flavor. The addition of cranberry dressing makes it a sweet and savory side dish.
If you’re looking for an easy way to add something fresh to your holiday spread without creating extra stress in the kitchen, this crunchy slaw might become your new Thanksgiving tradition.
Thanksgiving Slaw Recipe
Here’s how to make this simple Thanksgiving slaw as part of your holiday meal.
Ingredients
For the dressing:
- ½ cup cranberry sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
For the slaw:
- 8 cups shredded cabbage
- Half a red onion, chopped
- 1 cup dried cranberries or Craisins
- 1 cup candied pecans
- Black pepper to taste
Mix together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
In a large salad bowl, mix together the slaw ingredients, then top with the dressing. Sprinkle some black pepper on top to taste. Serves six.