Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw

Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw: The Perfect Crunchy, Creamy Summer Side

Nothing says summer like a fresh, crunchy slaw, and this Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw is the ultimate side dish for everything from backyard BBQs to casual potluck dinners. It’s tangy, sweet, creamy, and packed with flavor—all thanks to a delicious poppy seed dressing that brings everything together beautifully.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, especially if you use pre-shredded veggies. Of course, if you want extra control over texture and flavor, shredding your own cabbage and carrots is always an option.

Oh, and here’s a pro tip: when slicing apples for slaw, use a mandoline slicer to get perfectly thin, crisp strips. You won’t regret it!  I love this mini grate and slice set and use it daily for a variety of purposes.

Why You’ll Love Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw

This slaw is packed with fresh ingredients that hit all the right notes—sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy. It pairs beautifully with smoked, grilled, or barbecued meats, making it a go-to side for summer gatherings. Whether you’re serving up brisket, pulled pork, burgers, or grilled chicken, a big bowl of this slaw will complement every bite.

Get my recipe for Perfect Grass-Fed Burgers.

And let’s talk mayo for a second. You can use your favorite healthy mayo (I recommend this mayo or this one, but if you really want to take things up a notch, go homemade! Once you try homemade mayo, you won’t go back. Seriously, my easy mayo recipe will change your life.

And let’s not forget the honey—always choose local, raw honey for the best flavor and nutrients. It makes all the difference!

More apple recipes:

• Kid-Friendly Apple Sandwiches
• Homemade Apple Chips
• Just-Apples Homemade Applesauce
• Coconut Sugar Apple Pie Filling

How to Make Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw

This slaw comes together in no time, and the flavors only get better after it’s had time to chill. Here’s how to do it:

Start by tossing green cabbage, red cabbage, crisp tart apples, carrots, and green onions into a big mixing bowl. You can use pre-shredded veggies to keep things simple, or shred your own fresh cabbage and carrots for a little extra texture.

Then, grab a small bowl and whisk together your dressing:

• Apple cider vinegar for that perfect tang
• Dijon mustard for a subtle bite
• Honey for natural sweetness
• Mayonnaise for creaminess
• Poppy seeds to add a little texture and nuttiness
• Unrefined sea salt for extra minerals and flavor

Save 15% on my favorite unrefined sea salt.  Shop here and use code KEEPITREAL at checkout.

Once the dressing is smooth, pour it over the slaw mixture and give everything a good stir. Make sure every crunchy bite gets coated in that creamy goodness!

Now, here’s the key: chill the slaw before serving. Letting it sit in the fridge for a little while allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for 4–5 days.

The Perfect Summer Side

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing up a picnic, or just looking for a light, refreshing side dish, Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw is always a win. It pairs perfectly with smoky meats, grilled favorites, and even hearty casseroles. Serve it alongside pulled pork, smoked brisket, or even your favorite grilled burgers for a meal that’s both fresh and flavorful.

Give this recipe a try and let me know—what’s your favorite way to serve Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw?

Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw

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• Author: Kathleen | Roots & Boots
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Tangy, crunchy Honey-Sweetened Apple Slaw with a creamy poppy seed dressing—perfect for BBQs & picnics! Easy, fresh, and packed with flavor!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Slaw

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 crisp apples
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey (local and raw is best)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon unrefined sea salt

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Instructions

1. Combine green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, apples, and green onions in a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl, combine dressing ingredients and stir or whisk together.
3. Pour dressing over slaw mixture and stir to combine.
4. Chill prior to serving.
5. Store in the fridge up to about 4-5 days.

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Notes

Save 15% on my favorite unrefined sea salt.  Shop here and use code KEEPITREAL at checkout.