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Fresh Apple Fennel Coleslaw Recipe Easy Honey Dijon Dressing with Toasted Walnuts

fresh apple fennel coleslaw - featured image

A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw featuring thinly sliced fennel, crisp apples, shredded carrot, toasted walnuts, and a light honey Dijon dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, cored and julienned
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Honey Dijon dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Remove the stalks and fronds from the fennel bulb. Slice the bulb into thin strips about 1/8-inch thick using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  2. Core and julienne the Granny Smith apple into matchstick-sized pieces. Toss immediately with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Shred one medium carrot using a box grater or food processor.
  4. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the fennel, apple, and carrot. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. Fold in the toasted walnuts just before serving to keep their crunch intact.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle fennel fronds on top for garnish.

Notes

For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use vegan Dijon mustard. Add walnuts last minute to keep crunch. Thin slicing fennel and apple is key for best texture. Toast walnuts carefully over medium-low heat to avoid burning. Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity. Slaw can be made up to an hour ahead and refrigerated; add walnuts just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple fennel coleslaw, honey Dijon dressing, toasted walnuts, fresh coleslaw, easy side dish, healthy coleslaw, gluten-free coleslaw, vegan coleslaw option