Broccoli Slaw is a delightful and refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw. This vibrant dish combines the earthy crunch of broccoli stems and florets with the sweet tang of dried cranberries. Enhanced by the rich flavors of toasted almonds and the crispness of red cabbage, this coleslaw is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether served as a side dish or a main attraction, its freshness and crunchiness make it a standout addition to any meal.

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Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe brings together a colorful medley of vegetables and fruits. You’ll need 1 cup of sliced red cabbage for a beautiful purple hue and a satisfying crunch. Toasted sliced almonds, half a cup, add a nutty flavor, with some reserved for garnish. Thinly sliced red onion, about a quarter cup, offers a subtle bite. The star of the show is 3 cups of julienned broccoli stems and 2 cups of small broccoli florets, providing a robust texture. Add 1 cup of julienned carrots for sweetness and color, and a third cup of dried cranberries for a tart contrast, reserving a few for garnish. Finally, prepare a coleslaw dressing, omitting the celery seed, to tie all the ingredients together. For substitutions, consider using pecans instead of almonds or golden raisins in place of cranberries.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Begin by preparing the vegetables. To julienne the broccoli stems and carrots, cut them into thin, uniform matchsticks, ensuring an even texture and presentation. Slice the red cabbage and red onion thinly to maintain a delicate balance of flavors. In a large mixing bowl, combine the julienned broccoli stems, small broccoli florets, julienned carrots, sliced red cabbage, and thinly sliced red onion.

Next, add the toasted sliced almonds and dried cranberries, reserving some for garnish later. Pour approximately three-quarters of the prepared coleslaw dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This step is crucial for melding the flavors and achieving the perfect consistency. Taste the coleslaw and add additional dressing if necessary to suit your preference.

Transfer the well-mixed coleslaw to a serving bowl. For an eye-catching finish, garnish with the reserved toasted almonds and dried cranberries, adding both texture and visual appeal. Serve the coleslaw immediately to enjoy its fresh, crisp flavors.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

How to toast almonds for extra flavor: Toasting almonds brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
Choosing the best broccoli stems and florets: Look for fresh, firm broccoli with vibrant green color. Avoid any with yellowing or wilting.
Tips for keeping the coleslaw fresh and crisp: To maintain the crunch, refrigerate the coleslaw in an airtight container until ready to serve. Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Adjusting the dressing for taste preferences: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding a splash of vinegar for tanginess or a pinch of sugar for sweetness.
Can I prepare this coleslaw ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but for the best texture, combine and dress the salad just before serving.
What other nuts can I use besides almonds? Pecans, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds can be excellent substitutes.
How can I make the coleslaw vegan? Use a vegan coleslaw dressing or make your own with vegan mayonnaise.
Is it possible to use a different dressing? Absolutely! Experiment with different dressings like a lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Broccoli and Cranberry Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It’s an excellent side for grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or steak, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. Sandwiches and burgers also benefit from this coleslaw’s crunch and tang. For complementary side dishes, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty soup. This coleslaw can also be incorporated into other dishes; try it as a topping for tacos or mixed into a grain bowl for a wholesome meal.

Variations and Add-Ons

For a sweet twist, consider adding fruits such as diced apples or pears. These will complement the cranberries and add an extra layer of flavor. If you want to incorporate different vegetables, bell peppers or jicama can add a new dimension of crunch. To elevate the richness, consider adding cheeses like feta or blue cheese crumbles, which will provide a creamy contrast to the crisp vegetables.

This Broccoli slaw is not just a dish; it’s an experience of flavors and textures. From the crunchy vegetables to the sweet and tart cranberries, every bite is a delight. Try this recipe and bring a fresh twist to your meals. Share it with friends and family, and invite them to explore more delicious recipes on the blog. Enjoy the vibrant, crisp, and utterly satisfying Broccoli slaw!

Ingredients

1 cup sliced red cabbage
½ cup toasted sliced almonds, reserve some for garnish
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
3 cups julienned broccoli stems
1 cup julienned carrots
2 cups small broccoli florets
⅓ cup dried cranberries, reserve some for garnish
1 recipe Coleslaw Dressing, omit the celery seed

Instructions

Begin by gathering a large mixing bowl. Combine the julienned broccoli stems, small broccoli florets, julienned carrots, sliced red cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.

Pour approximately ¾ of the prepared Coleslaw Dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Taste and add additional dressing if necessary.

Once mixed, transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with the reserved toasted almonds and dried cranberries to enhance the presentation. Serve immediately.