Red & Green Coleslaw: A Colorful Celebration of Flavor

There’s something about a vibrant coleslaw that just screams “picnic!” I remember one summer, helping my grandmother prepare for the annual family reunion. The table was laden with all sorts of goodies, but her coleslaw, a mix of red and green cabbages tossed with a tangy dressing, always vanished first. The bright colors, the satisfying crunch, and the sweet-and-sour flavor were simply irresistible, and to this day, it’s a dish that brings back the warmth of summer days and the joy of family gatherings.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• ½ head red cabbage, shredded
• ½ head green cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup golden raisins
• 1 cup Kraft Classics Coleslaw Dressing
• 3 tablespoons Kraft Apple Jelly

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, finely chopped parsley, chopped green onion, and golden raisins. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine the Kraft Classics Coleslaw Dressing and Kraft Apple Jelly. Whisk or stir well until the apple jelly is fully incorporated into the dressing. The mixture should be smooth and lump-free.
3. Add the dressing mixture to the vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
4. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve immediately or chill for later. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together even more.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Shredding the Cabbage: For the best texture, use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to shred the cabbage thinly. If you prefer, you can also use a food processor with a shredding attachment. Just be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with mushy cabbage.
• Carrot Preparation: Pre-shredded carrots can be a time-saver, but freshly shredded carrots often have a better flavor and texture.
• Raisin Choice: Golden raisins offer a slightly sweeter flavor than regular raisins and complement the apple jelly in the dressing beautifully. However, you can substitute regular raisins if you prefer. For extra plumpness, soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding them to the salad.
• Dressing Consistency: The apple jelly can sometimes be a little difficult to incorporate fully into the coleslaw dressing. To help it along, you can gently heat the apple jelly in the microwave for a few seconds before mixing it with the dressing. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will become too runny.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This coleslaw is best when it has had a little time for the flavors to meld together. You can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, be aware that the coleslaw will become slightly softer as it sits, so don’t make it too far in advance if you prefer a very crunchy texture.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you find the coleslaw too sweet, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Red & Green Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, or vegetarian entrees. Its vibrant colors make it a visually appealing addition to any table.

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the coleslaw in individual bowls or ramekins. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra golden raisins.

Storage: Leftover coleslaw should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days, although the texture will soften over time. It’s best not to freeze coleslaw, as this will significantly alter the texture of the cabbage.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	276.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	46%
Total Fat	14.2 g	21%
Saturated Fat	2.1 g	10%
Cholesterol	10.8 mg	3%
Sodium	348.1 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	38.5 g	12%
Dietary Fiber	4.5 g	18%
Sugars	27.3 g	N/A
Protein	3.2 g	6%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Use a vegan coleslaw dressing instead of Kraft Classics Coleslaw Dressing. Many delicious vegan options are available in stores or can be easily made at home.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a little heat.
• Nutty Crunch: Add ¼ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Forward: Incorporate other fruits like chopped apple or mandarin oranges for a sweeter twist.
• Herby Goodness: Experiment with different herbs like dill, cilantro, or mint to customize the flavor profile.
• Yogurt Option: Replace half of the coleslaw dressing with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage to save time?
A: Yes, you can! Pre-shredded cabbage mixes are a great time-saver, just be sure to check the expiration date and ensure the cabbage is fresh.

Q: How long will this coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
A: This coleslaw will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but the texture will soften over time. It’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal crunch.

Q: Can I freeze coleslaw?
A: Freezing coleslaw is not recommended, as it will significantly alter the texture of the cabbage and make it mushy.

Q: I don’t have apple jelly. What can I substitute?
A: You can substitute another type of fruit jelly or jam, such as grape jelly or apricot jam. Alternatively, you can use a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or celery for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Red & Green Coleslaw recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The simple combination of crisp cabbage, sweet raisins, and a tangy-sweet dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and substitutions to create your own signature coleslaw. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this colorful and delicious dish! Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or pulled pork sandwiches for a complete and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!