Green Apple and Blue Cheese Coleslaw With Toasted Walnuts

I can still picture it: the checkered picnic blanket, the late summer sun dappling through the trees, and my Aunt Carol’s legendary coleslaw. It wasn’t your typical creamy, mayonnaise-laden version. This one was bright, tangy, and studded with the surprising pops of flavor from green apples and pungent blue cheese. The toasted walnuts added a delightful crunch, making it a side dish that was anything but ordinary. It was always the first thing to disappear, and to this day, that combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy evokes the warmth of family and the joy of summer.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: About 8 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄4 cups vegetable oil
• 1⁄3 cup apple cider vinegar (Organic Brags recommended)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 -3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons sweet onions, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon thyme
• 3 cups red cabbage, shredded
• 1 Granny Smith apple, julienned
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 bunch green onion, sliced thin
• 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1⁄2 cup blue cheese, crumbled

Equipment Needed

• Blender
• Large bowl
• Small skillet or oven for toasting walnuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a blender, combine the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced sweet onions, and thyme.
2. Blend: Pulse the ingredients in the blender until they are well combined and emulsified.
3. Season: Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper to your preference. Keep in mind that the blue cheese will add some saltiness, so err on the side of caution.
4. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, julienned Granny Smith apple, shredded carrot, and sliced green onions.
5. Combine: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
7. Toast the Walnuts: While the coleslaw chills, toast the walnuts. You can do this in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until toasted. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
8. Final Touches: Just before serving, gently toss in the toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overdress: Be mindful of how much dressing you add. You want the slaw to be coated, not swimming in dressing. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
• Shredding Shortcuts: To save time, use a food processor with a shredding attachment for the cabbage and carrot. You can also purchase pre-shredded cabbage and carrots at many grocery stores.
• Make-Ahead Dressing: The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to break up the preparation process.
• Apple Prep: To prevent the apple from browning, toss the julienned apple with a little lemon juice before adding it to the slaw.
• Blue Cheese Variety: The type of blue cheese you use will affect the flavor of the coleslaw. Roquefort is strong and pungent, while Gorgonzola is milder and creamier. Choose a blue cheese that you enjoy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Green Apple and Blue Cheese Coleslaw is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos. Serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Leftover coleslaw should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days, although the cabbage may soften slightly over time. It is not recommended to freeze this coleslaw, as the texture of the vegetables will be compromised upon thawing. The dressing can be stored separately for up to a week.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	405.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	358 g	88%
Total Fat	39.9 g	61%
Saturated Fat	6.3 g	31%
Cholesterol	6.3 mg	2%
Sodium	155.7 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	11 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	6.9 g	N/A
Protein	3.4 g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Substitute the blue cheese with a vegan blue cheese alternative or simply omit it. Ensure the Dijon mustard is vegan-friendly.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
• Different Apples: Try using other types of apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a different flavor profile.
• Cabbage Variety: Use a mix of green and red cabbage for a more colorful slaw.
• Herb Infusion: Infuse the vegetable oil with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for added depth of flavor. Gently heat the oil with the herbs over low heat for about 30 minutes, then strain and cool before using.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the walnuts and blue cheese just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Q: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

A: You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

A: Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage is a great time-saver. Just be sure to check the expiration date and give it a good rinse before using.

Q: How can I make the dressing creamier?

A: For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon or two of plain yogurt or mayonnaise to the blender.

Q: What pairs well with this coleslaw?

A: This coleslaw pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pork, or fish. It’s also a great addition to sandwiches or wraps. It also goes wonderfully with a crisp white wine.

Final Thoughts

This Green Apple and Blue Cheese Coleslaw is a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a little sunshine to your next meal! I’d love to hear how it turns out, so please share your feedback and any creative adaptations you come up with. Happy cooking!