The Thanksgiving table is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, with a tapestry of colors and flavors. Among the traditional dishes, there’s always room for a refreshing twist that adds crunch and zest to your holiday spread.
Cranberry Apple Slaw
This delightful slaw is a vibrant mix of tart cranberries and sweet apples, creating a balance of flavors that’s sure to complement your Thanksgiving meal. The base of the slaw is a crisp cabbage mix, with shredded carrots adding a pop of color and texture. Tossed in a light, tangy apple cider vinaigrette, this slaw is as refreshing as a crisp autumn day.
What sets this recipe apart is the use of fresh, whole cranberries, which are both festive and flavorful. The cranberries provide a burst of tartness, beautifully offset by the sweetness of thinly sliced apples. It’s a perfect side dish that celebrates the bounty of the fall harvest, bringing a touch of brightness to your table. Not only is it visually stunning, but it also provides a lighter option amid the heavier Thanksgiving fare.
Classic Coleslaw with a Twist
Classic Memphis-Style Coleslaw from Barefeet In The Kitchen
Rating: 4.8 (226 reviews). Total Time: 5 min.
Everyone loves a good coleslaw, but this version brings a surprising twist that will have your guests asking for the recipe. Starting with the classic combination of green and red cabbage, this slaw adds a dash of mustard and honey for a sweet and tangy kick. The dressing is creamy, yet not overpowering, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through.
What makes this slaw unique is the addition of toasted pecans and dried cherries. The nuts add a satisfying crunch, while the cherries offer a chewy sweetness, perfectly complementing the creamy dressing. This slaw is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, offering a delightful contrast to the rich and savory dishes typically found on the Thanksgiving table. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that elevates the humble coleslaw to new heights.
Spicy Jalapeño Slaw
Jalapeño Coleslaw: Sweet and Spicy Slaw from No Spoon Necessary
Rating: 5 (18 reviews). Total Time: 15 min.
If you’re looking to spice things up this Thanksgiving, this jalapeño slaw is just what you need. With a base of shredded cabbage and carrots, this slaw is amped up with the heat of fresh jalapeños. The dressing is a zesty lime and cilantro concoction that brightens the dish and adds a refreshing touch.
The beauty of this slaw lies in its bold flavor profile. The jalapeños provide a fiery kick, balanced by the tangy lime and the hint of sweetness from a touch of honey. It’s a slaw that awakens the senses and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and savory sides. The vibrant green of the jalapeños and cilantro creates a visually appealing dish that is as exciting to the eyes as it is to the palate. This slaw is not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter.
Asian-Inspired Sesame Slaw
Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!) from Feasting At Home
Rating: 5 (258 reviews). Total Time: 20 min.
Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing from Connoisseurus Veg
Rating: 4.9 (26 reviews). Total Time: 15 min.
Asian Coleslaw with Sesame Dressing from Just One Cookbook
Rating: 4.7 (176 reviews). Total Time: 20 min.
This slaw takes a flavorful journey across the globe, bringing a touch of Asian flair to your Thanksgiving table. Featuring a mix of napa cabbage, red bell peppers, and carrots, it’s tossed in a sesame ginger dressing that’s both savory and slightly sweet. The addition of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds depth and complexity to this already vibrant dish.
What makes this slaw special is its versatility and its ability to complement a variety of dishes. The sesame ginger dressing is a standout, providing a unique taste that’s both familiar and exotic. This slaw is a wonderful way to introduce new flavors to your Thanksgiving spread, adding an element of surprise and delight. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adventure in their culinary experiences.
Maple Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw
Maple–Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw from The All Purpose Kitchen
Brussels sprouts might be a traditional holiday vegetable, but this slaw gives them a modern twist that’s sure to impress. Shredded Brussels sprouts form the base, mixed with thin slices of red onion and a handful of dried cranberries for sweetness. The dressing, a delightful blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, brings it all together with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
The genius of this slaw lies in its simplicity and elegance. The maple syrup adds a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, while the Dijon mustard gives it a subtle heat and complexity. This slaw is a great way to showcase Brussels sprouts in a new light, offering a fresh, crunchy alternative to the typical roasted version. It’s a dish that feels both traditional and innovative at the same time.
Avocado and Lime Slaw
For a creamy, zesty addition to your Thanksgiving table, this avocado and lime slaw is a must-try. Shredded cabbage and carrots form the base, with ripe avocados mashed into a smooth dressing with lime juice and a hint of garlic. Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
The avocado dressing is what makes this slaw truly special. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, offering a delightful contrast to the crisp vegetables. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang that brightens the dish, making it an ideal palate cleanser between bites of hearty Thanksgiving dishes. This slaw is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for the holiday feast. It’s a dish that proves healthy eating can be both tasty and festive.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Slaw Recipes
Make Your Dressing Ahead
Prepare your slaw dressing a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld. This makes the dressing even more flavorful and saves time on the big day.
Keep It Crisp
To keep your slaw crisp and crunchy, wait to toss the dressing with the vegetables until just before serving. This prevents the slaw from becoming soggy.
Balance Your Flavors
When creating your slaw, aim for a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements. This ensures a well-rounded dish that will appeal to a variety of palates.











