Broccoli Slaw
Ingredients
Broccoli Slaw
- 5 cups broccoli florets and stems cut into strips
- 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 large apple or 2 medium ones, shredded or cut into thin strips
- 1/3 cup cranberries
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1 cup loosely packed toasted almonds
Coleslaw Salad Dressing
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons Sour Cream or Yogurt
- 2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon each Salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet relish
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli
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Trim tough ends of the broccoli. Then use a mandolin , food processor slicing blade, vegetable peeler or sharp knife to shred broccoli stalks into thin, slawlike strands.
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Use the same technique for the florets.
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Add in the remaining ingredients of the broccoli slaw into a large bowl. This includes shredded carrots, apples, red onions, toasted almonds and cranberries.
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Make the Dressing
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In a separate bowl prepare the best Coleslaw Dressing, or if you have it ready in the fridge then you're good to go! Just mix all ingredients together.
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Now pour that luscious dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
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The best rule to extra tasty slaw is always to refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. If you can make it and chill for about 2-3 hours, that would be even better
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Chilling allow flavors to meld and softens the slaw slightly.
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Broccoli slaw is best served chilled, but it can also sit at room temperature for short periods during gatherings or meals.
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
Pro Tips For the BEST Better Broccoli Slaw
- Shred the broccoli finely. Ultra thin strands absorb dressing better and feel less fibrous.
- Massage lightly. If you have time, give the broccoli a quick toss with salt or acid can soften raw broccoli strands.
- Balance flavors, especially for the dressing. Our Coleslaw Dressing is an absolutely perfectly well rounded and balanced in terms of richness, sweetness, tang and acidity. You may want it extra sweet, less rich, etc, so make that balance.
- Add texture contrasts. We added toasted nuts, you can use seeds as well. They make the salad more interesting so we highly recommend you don't skimp! Try our Candied Walnuts for a sweet crunch!
- Don’t overdress. Overdressing the slaw will make it soggy.
- Use fresh broccoli stalks. Firm and fresh stalks are tender and sweet, older stalks can be tough.
- Sweetness balance. We added apples and cranberries for a mild sweet contrast.
- Make ahead. Broccoli slaw gets better after resting.
- Drain Excess Dressing. If you notice the salad is soggy after chilling, simply drain excess dressing or use a spoon to do so.
Popular Broccoli Slaw Variations
- Sweet and Tangy: Pairs fruit like apples and dried cranberries with a citrusy coleslaw dressing for contrast. The dressing would have lemon or orange juice and zest.
- Asian Broccoli Slaw: It would include sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, cilantro, Spicy Mayo and Chili Oil Recipe
- Healthy Yogurt Dressing: This version replaces mayo with Greek yogurt for lighter texture.
- BBQ Style: Here you can add a smoky, mustard based dressing with some of your favorite BBQ sauce to complement grilled meats.
Is broccoli slaw healthy?
Yes broccoli slaw is a nutrient dense salad high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It’s lighter than cabbage‑based slaws and pairs well with balanced dressings.
Can I make broccoli slaw ahead of time?
Yes you can and you should! Broccoli slaw tastes better when made hours in advance. If you want to prepare it days in advance, then you can shred the broccoli and store it separately. Toss with coleslaw dressing 1-2 hours before serving for best texture.
How long does broccoli slaw last in the fridge?
Once dressed, it’s best eaten within 3 days. Undressed broccoli slaw can last longer when wrapped airtight.
What dressing works best with broccoli slaw?
Our absolute Coleslaw Dressing is what we use and recommend! You can also find variations on the article depending on what you make. Think also of light vinaigrettes, creamy mustard dressings, or yogurt based options such as Creamy Cucumber Salad. A balance of acidity and sweetness is key.
Why is my broccoli slaw watery?
The best way is to avoid overdressing your salad, drain any excess liquid if you find it, and lightly salt the broccoli before dressing to help reduce water.
Can I use florets instead of stalks?
You can, but it would be more of a Broccoli Salad. The stalks shred more evenly and deliver a consistent slaw like texture.
Is broccoli slaw gluten‑free or vegan?
Yes! if your dressing ingredients is made with gluten‑free or vegan ingredients. Think vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayo.
What’s the difference between broccoli slaw and coleslaw?
Broccoli slaw uses shredded broccoli stalks instead of cabbage, resulting in a crunchier texture with more nutritional value.
Can I make broccoli slaw without mayo?
Yes if you choose to! A simple vinaigrette of olive oil, dijon mustard, vinegar (or any citrus juice like lemon juice) whisked together makes a bright version. You can sweeten it lightly with maple syrup, and you've got a balanced dressing.
Can broccoli slaw be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture will become soggy and watery.
Can I add protein to broccoli slaw?
Yes! Try shredded chicken, crumbled beef or chicken, tofu, chickpeas, quinoa, your favorite!
Can broccoli slaw be low carb or keto?
Yes if you use a sugar free dressing by substituting sugar free sweeteners, then you make it keto and low carbs while enjoying the crunch and vitamins.
What toppings enhance broccoli slaw?
Our favorites include toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, some fresh herbs and citrus zest.
What to Serve With Broccoli Slaw
- Hot honey chicken , Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Air Fryer Chicken Legs
- Best NY Strip Steak, Ribeye Steak
- Chicken Sliders, Cheeseburger Sliders, Turkey Sliders, Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
- Salmon burgers, Mushroom Swiss Burger, Cheese Stuffed Burgers With Onions And Mushrooms
- Lamb Tacos, Birria Tacos, Mahi Mahi Tacos, Ground Beef Tacos, Ground Chicken Tacos
- Mashed potatoes or potato salad
- On top of grain bowls like Fajita Bowl.