Sweet and Crunchy Broccoli Cole Slaw
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This Broccoli Cole Slaw is a vibrant, crunchy addition to your collection of easy potluck recipes. Whether you’re headed to a backyard BBQ or a holiday gathering, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast and has everyone asking for the recipe.
I still remember the first time I tried a broccoli-based slaw at a summer potluck. It was a revelation—crunchier than traditional coleslaw, with a sweet, tangy flavor that made it stand out among the usual sides like Classic Macaroni Salad and Easy Cowboy Caviar.
Fresh broccoli florets, pre-shredded broccoli slaw, sweet dried cranberries, crisp apples, and crunchy almond slices are tossed together in the same creamy dressing I use for my homemade coleslaw. The slightly sweet flavor brings everything together. Into this delicious, crunchy broccoli slaw that is going to be my go-to for every summer get-together this year!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Slaw Base:
- Broccoli crowns – Make sure you trim the broccoli crowns so you have 6 ounces of bite-sized florets only. You don’t want the harder stem pieces.
- Broccoli slaw mix – I love how versatile broccoli slaw is—it’s not just for this creamy side dish! We also use it in our Ramen Noodle Salad, which combines the slaw with crunchy noodles, a tangy dressing, and a nutty topping. If you’re already buying broccoli slaw for this recipe, it’s worth making a batch of that salad too.
- Fruit and nuts – Dried cranberries, crisp fresh apples, and sliced almonds add a sweet and tangy flavor as well as crisp texture to the slaw.
Dressing:
- Mayonnaise – You can sub with miracle whip or plain Greek yogurt if needed, but be warned it will change the flavor.
- Buttermilk – Gives the slaw it’s creaminess.
- Lemon juice – Gives a tang to the slaw.
- White vinegar – Helps balance out the sweetness
- Seasonings – White sugar, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt give the cole slaw a punch of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Trim the Broccoli. Cut broccoli crowns into small, bite-sized florets. Discard any thick stems.
Step 2 – Combine the Base. In a large bowl, mix the broccoli florets, broccoli slaw mix, dried cranberries, chopped apples, and almonds.
Step 3 – Whisk the Dressing. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, sugar, onion powder, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4 – Mix It Up. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 5 – Chill Time. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for best flavor.
Step 6 – Serve. Give the slaw a quick toss and serve chilled!
Variations & Customizations
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a full meal.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Switch the Fruit: Use pears, grapes, or even pomegranate seeds for a fruity twist.
- Fresh Herbs: Try chopped parsley, dill, or basil for an herbal note.
Slaw is a delicious addition to so many occasions. Make sure to try our apple coleslaw, spicy jalapeno coleslaw, and creamy avocado coleslaw as well!
Frequently Asked Questions
Definitely. It holds up well for up to 3 days in the fridge and even improves in flavor.
Chilling helps all the flavors meld. You can serve it right away, but it’s better cold and rested.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended—fresh produce and creamy dressing won’t hold up well.
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Broccoli Cole Slaw
Ingredients
- 6 ounces Trimmed broccoli crowns
- 12 ounces Broccoli Slaw
- 2 ounces Dried cranberries
- 6 ounces Chopped Apples
- 2 ounces Almond slices
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Onion powder
- 1 tablespoon White vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Trim your broccoli crown so you have bite-sized pieces of florets only. No thick stem pieces.
- In a large bowl combine trimmed broccoli, broccoli slaw, dried cranberries, chopped apples, and almond slices.
- In a small bowl make the dressing by combining the mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, sugar, onion powder, white vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw ingredients and toss together until well combined.
- Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve chilled.
Nutrition
