When it comes to simple, satisfying side dishes, this Broccoli Slaw is hard to beat. Crisp and addictive, it combines crunchy broccoli with a creamy coleslaw-style dressing for a bright, flavorful salad that works for picnics, barbecues, weeknight dinners, or potlucks. This version is a family favorite thanks to its mix of textures and sweet-tangy contrast.
In warmer months we often serve simple grilled mains and seasonal sides; this Broccoli Slaw pairs especially well with BBQ chicken, grilled corn on the cob, or other outdoor favorites. It blends the best parts of classic creamy coleslaw and broccoli salad by using both a shredded broccoli slaw mix and fresh broccoli florets for color and crunch.
The slaw gets extra interest from crisp apple, chewy dried cranberries, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a sweet-and-tangy homemade coleslaw dressing. It’s easy to make, adaptable to dietary preferences, and stores well for a day or two, which makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
I make this often—sometimes weekly—and it never gets old.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- This broccoli slaw combines crunchy broccoli florets and shredded broccoli stems for a satisfying texture contrast.
- It’s quick to assemble and pairs well with a wide range of main dishes, from grilled meats to seafood or vegetarian entrees.
- Easy to prep ahead: you can prepare components in advance and toss together just before serving; stores well for 2 days refrigerated.
- Gluten-free by nature and simple to modify for vegan or dairy-free diets by swapping dressings or toppings.
Recipe ingredients
This broccoli coleslaw uses a short list of fresh ingredients that are easy to prepare. Substitute freely based on what you have on hand—see the notes below for ideas.
- Broccoli. This recipe uses both a bagged broccoli slaw (shredded broccoli stems) and fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and color.
- Apple. Any crisp eating apple works well. Chop it into small pieces so it distributes evenly through the slaw.
- Green onions. Thinly sliced on the bias adds mild onion flavor; swap with chives or red onion if preferred.
- Dried cranberries. They add a sweet-tart chew. You can substitute golden raisins or chopped dried apricots, or leave them out.
- Toasted almonds. These add crunch; use pre-toasted sliced almonds or toast raw almonds lightly in a skillet. Substitute with walnuts, pecans, or seeds if desired.
- Coleslaw dressing. A simple creamy dressing balances the sweet and tangy notes. To make the salad vegan, choose a vegan mayonnaise or plant-based dressing.
See the recipe card below for the exact ingredient list and quantities.
How to make this recipe
Preparing this broccoli slaw is straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time. Most of the work is chopping and tossing—no cooking required.
Pro tip: Chop and measure ingredients ahead of time, then combine and dress the slaw just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Full instructions are available in the recipe card below.
- Trim and chop a broccoli crown into bite-sized florets.
- Combine the florets with the bagged broccoli slaw, chopped apple, sliced green onions, and dried cranberries in a large bowl.
- Add coleslaw dressing a little at a time, tossing until everything is evenly coated—use only what you need so the slaw remains crisp.
- Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds over the top just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Recipe FAQs
Broccoli slaw is a packaged mix of thinly sliced broccoli stems, often blended with shredded carrot and sometimes purple cabbage. It’s sold in the produce section and is used as a substitute for shredded cabbage in coleslaw-style salads.
Yes. Buy a head of broccoli that includes the stem. Remove the florets, peel the tough outer layer of the stem, then grate or finely shred the inner stem with a box grater to approximate the store-bought slaw texture.
Coleslaw is typically made from shredded cabbage, while broccoli slaw uses shredded broccoli stems (and sometimes florets). Both are dressed similarly and work well with barbecue and grilled dishes.
Stored in an airtight container, the slaw will stay fresh for 2–3 days. Add nuts just before serving to preserve their crunch.
Serving suggestions
This broccoli slaw is versatile and complements many meals. It’s a great choice for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners because it adds freshness and crunch to the plate.
Popular pairings include:
- Grilled burgers or chicken for a classic summer meal.
- Pulled meats like BBQ pulled chicken or pulled pork for game day or potlucks.
- Seafood dishes such as salmon cakes or pan-fried fish for a lighter option.
Recipe notes
- Pro tip: If broccoli slaw is unavailable, shred the broccoli stem with a box grater after peeling off the tough outer skin.
- Add the almonds right before serving so they stay crisp.
- Keep the dressed slaw chilled and consume within 2 days for best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to customize with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to suit your taste.
More easy coleslaw ideas you’ll enjoy
- Kale slaw with apples and cranberries in a creamy maple dressing
- Classic vinegar-style coleslaw for a lighter tangy side
- Fennel and apple slaw for an aromatic, crisp alternative
- Curry-flavored coleslaw for a warm, spiced twist
Did you try this recipe? If so, please leave a review below and share your photos on social media using the recipe name so others can get ideas.
Broccoli Slaw
6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large broccoli crown (2–3 cups bite-sized florets)
- 12 ounces broccoli slaw
- 1 medium apple, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced on the bias
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sliced toasted almonds
- Coleslaw dressing (amount to taste)
Instructions
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Chop the broccoli crown into bite-sized florets.
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In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, broccoli slaw, chopped apple, sliced green onions, and dried cranberries.
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Add coleslaw dressing a little at a time, tossing to coat. Use only as much dressing as needed so the slaw stays crisp.
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Sprinkle sliced toasted almonds on top just before serving and enjoy.
Notes
- Prep tip: Prepare the ingredients in advance and toss together before serving to save time.
- Add the almonds at the last minute to preserve their crunch.
- Store leftover slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Customize with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 23 g,
Protein: 5 g,
Fat: 5 g
Nutrition information is an estimate for guidance only.