Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a refreshing side for a summer barbecue or a light lunch, this salad delivers on taste and nutrition. Featuring fresh broccoli, colorful carrots, and a creamy dressing, it stands out with its delightful textures and flavors. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from almonds, it’s a wholesome dish that nourishes your body.
• Flavorful Dressing: The creamy homemade dressing elevates the freshness of the vegetables, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
• Versatile Use: Serve it as a side dish, main course, or even as a topping for sandwiches or wraps.
• Eye-Catching Colors: The mix of green broccoli, orange carrots, and red cabbage makes this salad visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, enhancing presentation and texture.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well incorporated.

Ingredients

Here’s my go-to broccoli slaw salad recipe with a simple mix of fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, red onions, and a creamy homemade dressing that brings everything together.

For the Salad Base

• 3 cups thinly sliced broccoli stems
• 2 cups small broccoli pieces
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup toasted almond slices (keep some aside for topping)
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries (set some aside for topping)

For the Dressing

• 1 batch coleslaw dressing (without celery seed)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Make Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Then:
1. Slice the broccoli stems thinly and cut small pieces from the florets.
2. Julienne or thinly slice the carrots.
3. Shred the red cabbage and finely slice the red onion.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

In a dry skillet over medium heat:
1. Add almond slices.
2. Toast them lightly until golden brown while stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Mix the Salad Components

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all prepared vegetables—broccoli stems, small broccoli pieces, carrots, red cabbage, and red onion.
2. Add half of the toasted almonds and half of the dried cranberries into the mix.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together your coleslaw dressing ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour it over your vegetable mixture.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Using tongs or large spoons:
1. Gently toss all ingredients until well coated with dressing.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

Transfer your fresh broccoli slaw salad to serving plates:
1. Top with remaining toasted almonds and cranberries.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Enjoy your delicious Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad!

How to Serve Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your meal, these serving suggestions will help you elevate this refreshing salad.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad makes for a light and healthy lunch option. Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing this slaw with grilled chicken adds protein and complements the fresh flavors, making it great for dinner.

On Tacos

• Use Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad as a crunchy topping for tacos. The crunchiness adds texture and flavor to each bite.

With Sandwiches

• This slaw pairs wonderfully with sandwiches, providing a crisp contrast to richer fillings like pulled pork or turkey.

How to Perfect Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

To ensure your Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Start with less dressing and add more as needed, allowing you to control the creaminess of the salad.
• Let it chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Add variations: Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits. Adding walnuts or raisins can give new depth to your slaw.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its crunchy texture and vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn enhances the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds heartiness without overpowering the lightness of the broccoli slaw.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the tangy slaw.
4. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas provide protein and a satisfying texture alongside your salad.
5. Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs well with almost any meal, offering crispy goodness against the fresh crunch.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and balance out savory dishes served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the washing step: Always wash your broccoli and other vegetables thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides. This ensures a clean and healthy salad.

• Ignoring the texture: Make sure to slice broccoli stems thinly and evenly. Uneven sizes can lead to an inconsistent crunch in your salad.

• Forgetting about toppings: Don’t skip adding toasted almonds and cranberries on top. These toppings not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal.

• Using pre-packaged dressing: While convenient, store-bought dressings can be overly processed. Making a homemade dressing allows you to control flavors and ingredients.

• Not letting it chill: Allow the salad to sit for a bit before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld together, making each bite more delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the salad’s texture.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months.

Reheating Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad?

Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad is a crunchy mix of fresh broccoli, carrots, red cabbage, and onions dressed in a creamy sauce. It’s nutritious and perfect as a side dish or light meal.

How do I make my Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad crispier?

To keep your salad crispy, ensure all vegetables are fresh and avoid overdressing until serving. Chilling the salad also helps maintain its crunch.

Can I customize the Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, sunflower seeds, or even different nuts based on your preference.

How long does Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad is a vibrant and nutritious addition to any meal. Its balance of flavors makes it versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings for a personal touch! Enjoy creating your delicious version of this refreshing dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Fresh Broccoli Slaw Salad is a deliciously crunchy and refreshing dish that perfectly balances nutrition and flavor. With vibrant green broccoli, bright orange carrots, and crisp red cabbage, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and minerals. The creamy homemade dressing ties all the ingredients together, creating a delightful crunch in every bite. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch option, this versatile salad can easily be customized to fit various dietary preferences. Plus, it takes just 15 minutes to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups thinly sliced broccoli stems
• 2 cups small broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup toasted almond slices (reserve some for topping)
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries (set some aside for topping)
• Creamy coleslaw dressing

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Instructions

1. Wash and prepare the vegetables: thinly slice broccoli stems and florets, julienne carrots, shred cabbage, and slice onion.
2. Toast almond slices in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine all prepared vegetables along with half the almonds and cranberries.
4. Prepare the dressing in a separate bowl by whisking ingredients together until smooth.
5. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix and gently toss to coat.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with remaining almonds, cranberries, and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg