Creamy Broccoli Slaw recipe

For years, I’ll admit, coleslaw was just… coleslaw. That slightly soggy, often mayonnaise-heavy side dish at picnics and barbecues that was more of an obligation than a delight. But then, I stumbled upon the world of broccoli slaw, and everything changed. Suddenly, coleslaw had texture, crunch, and a vibrant freshness that was utterly addictive. And when you add a creamy, tangy dressing? Pure magic. My family, initially skeptical of anything “healthy-sounding” like broccoli slaw, became instant converts. This isn’t your typical, run-of-the-mill slaw; this is Creamy Broccoli Slaw, bursting with flavor and crunch in every bite. It’s become our go-to side for everything from grilled chicken and fish to pulled pork sandwiches and tacos. What I love most is its versatility – it’s just as perfect for a summer barbecue as it is alongside a cozy fall dinner. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights or potlucks. If you’re looking to revitalize your side dish game and discover a coleslaw that’s actually exciting, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to experience Creamy Broccoli Slaw – the side dish that will change your mind about slaw forever!

Ingredients for the Best Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Creating a truly delicious Creamy Broccoli Slaw is all about the right balance of ingredients and textures. Fresh, crisp broccoli slaw mix is the star, but the creamy, tangy dressing and the addition of other flavorful components elevate it from simple to spectacular. Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of incredibly tasty Creamy Broccoli Slaw:

• Broccoli Slaw Mix: 1 bag (12-16 ounces). This is the foundation of your slaw and the key to its signature crunch. Broccoli slaw mix typically consists of shredded broccoli stalks, carrots, and sometimes red cabbage. You can find pre-packaged broccoli slaw mix in the produce section of most grocery stores, making this recipe incredibly convenient. Look for a mix that is fresh and vibrant in color, without any signs of wilting or dryness. If you prefer, you can also make your own broccoli slaw mix by shredding broccoli stalks (peeled and trimmed), carrots, and red cabbage using a food processor or a box grater.
• Mayonnaise: ¾ cup. Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the dressing and provides richness and body. Use good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. You can use full-fat mayonnaise for the richest flavor and creamiest texture, or light mayonnaise to reduce the fat and calorie content. For a tangier slaw, consider using mayonnaise made with olive oil or avocado oil.
• Sour Cream: ¼ cup. Sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to the dressing, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and adding a delightful depth of flavor. Full-fat or reduced-fat sour cream both work well. For a slightly lighter slaw, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, which will also add a protein boost and a similar tangy flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 3 tablespoons. Apple cider vinegar is crucial for adding acidity and tanginess to the dressing, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream and brightening the overall flavor of the slaw. Apple cider vinegar has a slightly fruity and mellow flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. You can substitute with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar if needed, but apple cider vinegar is highly recommended for its distinctive taste.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons. Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and the tanginess of the sour cream, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the slaw. Granulated sugar dissolves easily and provides a clean sweetness. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference, depending on how sweet you like your slaw. For a less refined sugar option, you can use honey or maple syrup, but these will impart a slightly different flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tangy, savory, and slightly spicy kick to the dressing, enhancing its complexity and depth of flavor. Dijon mustard has a more pronounced flavor than yellow mustard and provides a sophisticated touch. You can substitute with yellow mustard in a pinch, but Dijon mustard is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• Celery Seed: 1 teaspoon. Celery seed adds a distinctive warm, slightly bitter, and celery-like flavor that is classic in coleslaw dressings and complements broccoli and creamy dressings exceptionally well. Celery seed is a small but powerful ingredient that significantly enhances the overall flavor of the slaw. If you don’t have celery seed, you can omit it, but it is highly recommended for an authentic coleslaw flavor.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Salt is essential for seasoning the slaw and enhancing all the flavors. Use table salt or fine sea salt. Add salt gradually and taste as you go, as the amount needed can vary slightly depending on personal preference and the saltiness of other ingredients.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (freshly ground, or to taste). Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and aromatic spice that complements the creamy dressing and vegetables beautifully. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Optional Ingredients for Flavor and Texture Enhancements:

• Red Onion, Finely Diced: ¼ cup. Finely diced red onion adds a pungent, slightly sweet, and colorful element to the slaw. Red onion provides a bit of bite and sharpness that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables. Soak diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes and drain well before adding to reduce its sharpness if desired.
• Dried Cranberries or Raisins: ¼ cup. Dried cranberries or raisins add a touch of sweetness and chewiness that complements the savory and crunchy elements of the slaw. They also add a pop of color and visual appeal. Choose dried cranberries or raisins based on your preference for tartness or sweetness.
• Sunflower Seeds or Toasted Almonds: ¼ cup. Sunflower seeds or toasted almonds add extra crunch and a nutty flavor to the slaw, enhancing its texture and complexity. Toasting almonds brings out their flavor even more. Choose sunflower seeds for a milder nutty flavor, or toasted almonds for a richer, more pronounced nutty taste.
• Fresh Parsley, Chopped: 2 tablespoons. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous, and fresh element to the slaw. Chopped fresh parsley provides a touch of green color and a clean, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon. Fresh lemon juice can be added along with apple cider vinegar for an extra layer of bright acidity and citrusy flavor. Lemon juice enhances the tanginess of the dressing and complements the other flavors.
• Hot Sauce (Optional): A few dashes. For a little heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. Hot sauce adds a subtle spicy kick that can balance the sweetness and creaminess of the slaw.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Making Creamy Broccoli Slaw is incredibly quick and easy, requiring minimal prep time and just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to create a perfectly balanced and delicious slaw:

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

• In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper.
• Whisk until all ingredients are smoothly combined and the dressing is creamy and well-emulsified.
• Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, sugar, or vinegar to your preference. The dressing should be tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet.

Step 2: Combine Slaw Mix and Dressing

• Add the bag of broccoli slaw mix to the bowl with the dressing.
• If using any optional additions like diced red onion, dried cranberries or raisins, sunflower seeds or toasted almonds, and chopped fresh parsley, add them to the bowl now as well.

Step 3: Toss to Combine

• Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the broccoli slaw mix and any added ingredients with the creamy dressing until everything is evenly coated. Ensure the dressing is distributed throughout the slaw without over-mixing, which can make the slaw soggy.

Step 4: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

• For the best flavor and texture, cover the bowl of Creamy Broccoli Slaw with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2-3 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the slaw to become even more refreshing and crisp. If you are short on time, you can serve it immediately, but chilling enhances the overall quality of the slaw.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Before serving, give the slaw a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing if any liquid has settled at the bottom.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!
• Creamy Broccoli Slaw is best served fresh within a few hours of making it, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The texture may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overdress: Start with the recommended amount of dressing and add more gradually if needed. You want the slaw to be coated, but not swimming in dressing. You can always add more dressing, but you can’t take it away.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and the finished slaw and adjust seasoning to your preference. Balance the sweetness, tanginess, and saltiness to create a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Chill Before Serving (If Possible): Chilling the slaw allows the flavors to meld and enhances the texture. If you have time, chilling for at least 30 minutes is recommended.
• Add Crunch Right Before Serving: If you are adding sunflower seeds or toasted almonds, you can add them just before serving to maintain their maximum crunch. If added too far in advance, they may soften slightly from the moisture in the slaw.
• Don’t Make Too Far Ahead: While the slaw can be stored for a few days, it is best enjoyed fresh. The broccoli slaw mix will start to soften over time, so making it no more than a day or two in advance is recommended for optimal texture.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Creamy Broccoli Slaw, while delicious and containing vegetables, does have a creamy dressing that contributes to its calorie and fat content. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and variations in the recipe.

Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup (about 100-120 grams)

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (based on recipe as written):

• Calories: 200-250 calories
• Total Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams (primarily from mayonnaise and sour cream)
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: Varies
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: Varies
• Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
• Sodium: 200-300 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4 grams (from broccoli and vegetables)
  • Sugars: 5-7 grams (from sugar and naturally occurring in vegetables)
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin C: Excellent source (from broccoli and cabbage)
• Vitamin K: Excellent source (from broccoli and cabbage)
• Folate: Good source (from broccoli and cabbage)
• Potassium: Moderate source (from broccoli and vegetables)

Important Notes:

• Fat Content: The primary source of calories in Creamy Broccoli Slaw is fat from the mayonnaise and sour cream. Using light mayonnaise and reduced-fat sour cream can significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Sodium Content: Mayonnaise and mustard can contribute to the sodium content. Using low-sodium mayonnaise and mustard, and being mindful of added salt, can help reduce sodium levels.
• Vegetable Content: Broccoli slaw provides a good source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, along with other vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, as the calorie content can add up if you consume large servings. A ¾ cup serving is a reasonable portion for a side dish.
• Make it Lighter: To make a lighter version, use light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduce sugar, and increase vinegar. You can also add more vegetables and less dressing.

Disclaimer: These nutrition facts are estimates and should be considered as general guidelines. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators, but remember that homemade recipes can vary.

Preparation Time for Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Creamy Broccoli Slaw is incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute addition to a meal. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes. This includes:
  • Making the dressing (5 minutes)
  • Chopping red onion and parsley (optional, 5-10 minutes)
  • Measuring ingredients and combining (5 minutes)
• Chill Time (Optional but Recommended): Minimum 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours. Chilling enhances flavor and texture.

Total Active Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes.
Total Time (including chilling): Minimum 40 minutes, optimally 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes.

Quick & Easy: As you can see, the active preparation time is very short. Most of the time involved is simply chilling the slaw, which is inactive time. This makes Creamy Broccoli Slaw a fantastic make-ahead side dish. You can prepare it in minutes and let it chill in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Creamy Broccoli Slaw is an incredibly versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses and cuisines. Its crunchy texture and tangy-creamy flavor make it a refreshing and satisfying addition to any meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy Creamy Broccoli Slaw:

• Classic BBQ Side:
  • Serve alongside grilled or barbecued meats like ribs, chicken, pulled pork, brisket, and burgers.
  • The coolness and tanginess of the slaw cut through the richness of BBQ flavors.
  • Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and summer gatherings.
• With Sandwiches and Wraps:
  • Use as a side for sandwiches, wraps, and paninis.
  • Adds crunch and freshness to deli sandwiches, veggie wraps, and grilled cheese.
  • Especially good with pulled pork sandwiches, BBQ chicken sandwiches, and fish sandwiches.
• Taco and Bowl Topping:
  • Top tacos, burrito bowls, and grain bowls with Creamy Broccoli Slaw for added texture and freshness.
  • Pairs well with fish tacos, shrimp tacos, vegetarian tacos, and chicken bowls.
  • Provides a cool and creamy element to balance spicy or savory dishes.
• Alongside Seafood:
  • Serve with grilled, baked, or pan-fried fish or seafood.
  • Complements flaky white fish, salmon, shrimp, and crab cakes.
  • The slaw’s tanginess enhances the delicate flavors of seafood.
• With Fried Chicken or Chicken Tenders:
  • A classic pairing with fried chicken, chicken tenders, or chicken nuggets.
  • Provides a cool and crunchy counterpoint to the richness of fried foods.
  • A must-have side for chicken and waffles or chicken biscuits.
• As a Burger Topping:
  • Pile Creamy Broccoli Slaw on top of burgers for extra flavor and texture.
  • Adds a creamy crunch to beef burgers, veggie burgers, turkey burgers, and chicken burgers.
  • Especially delicious with BBQ-flavored burgers or burgers with caramelized onions.
• Salad Bar Addition:
  • Include Creamy Broccoli Slaw as part of a salad bar or buffet spread.
  • Offers a creamy and crunchy coleslaw option alongside other salads and sides.
  • Perfect for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
• Serving Presentation Ideas:
  • Serving Bowl: Present the slaw in a pretty serving bowl for a classic look.
  • Individual Cups or Ramekins: Serve individual portions in small cups or ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
  • Garnish: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra celery seed, or a drizzle of olive oil for visual appeal.
  • Lettuce Cups: Serve slaw in lettuce cups for a lighter and more refreshing presentation, especially for appetizers or light lunches.
  • On a Platter: Arrange slaw on a platter alongside grilled meats or sandwiches for a visually appealing buffet-style presentation.

Additional Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Slaw

To make your Creamy Broccoli Slaw truly exceptional every time, here are five essential tips:

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Broccoli Slaw Mix: The foundation of great broccoli slaw is a fresh and crisp broccoli slaw mix. Choose a bag of broccoli slaw mix that looks vibrant in color, without any signs of wilting, browning, or excessive moisture. Check the expiration date to ensure freshness. If possible, buy broccoli slaw mix from a store with high produce turnover to ensure optimal freshness. Fresh broccoli slaw mix will provide the best crunch and texture for your slaw. If you are making your own mix, use fresh, firm broccoli stalks, carrots, and red cabbage for the best results.
2. Make the Dressing Ahead of Time: Preparing the creamy dressing ahead of time, even just 30 minutes before you plan to assemble the slaw, allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. You can make the dressing up to a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time when you are ready to make the slaw but also enhances the overall flavor of the dressing, as the ingredients have time to harmonize. When you are ready to assemble the slaw, simply whisk the dressing again briefly and proceed with combining it with the broccoli slaw mix.
3. Don’t Overmix the Slaw: Once you add the dressing to the broccoli slaw mix, gently toss everything together until just combined and the slaw is evenly coated. Avoid overmixing the slaw, as excessive mixing can break down the broccoli and vegetables, causing them to become soggy and release too much moisture. Gentle tossing preserves the texture and crunch of the slaw. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the ingredients lightly and efficiently.
4. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess to Your Taste: Creamy Broccoli Slaw is all about balance, particularly between sweetness and tanginess. Taste the dressing and the finished slaw and adjust the sugar and apple cider vinegar to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a little more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired level of sweetness. If you prefer a tarter slaw, add a little more apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the desired tanginess. Remember that chilling the slaw can slightly mellow the sweetness and tanginess, so it’s a good idea to taste and adjust seasoning after chilling as well.
5. Add Crunch and Texture Just Before Serving: If you are adding crunchy elements like sunflower seeds or toasted almonds to your Creamy Broccoli Slaw, it’s best to add them just before serving to maintain their maximum crunch. If added too far in advance, the moisture in the dressing can soften the seeds or nuts, diminishing their crunchy texture. Store the seeds or nuts separately and sprinkle them over the slaw right before you are ready to serve it. This ensures that every bite of your slaw has a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh textures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Here are some common questions people ask about making and enjoying Creamy Broccoli Slaw:

Q1: Can I make Creamy Broccoli Slaw ahead of time?

A: Yes, Creamy Broccoli Slaw is a great make-ahead side dish! You can prepare the slaw up to 2-3 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Chilling actually enhances the flavor and texture of the slaw as the flavors meld together and the slaw becomes more refreshing. However, it’s best to avoid making it too far in advance (more than a day) as the broccoli slaw mix can soften slightly over time. For optimal texture, assemble the slaw no more than a few hours before you plan to serve it. You can also make the dressing up to 2-3 days in advance and store it separately in the refrigerator, then combine it with the broccoli slaw mix just before serving.

Q2: How long does Creamy Broccoli Slaw last in the refrigerator?

A: Creamy Broccoli Slaw will generally last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. The slaw is best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal texture, as the broccoli slaw mix will gradually soften over time due to the moisture in the dressing. While it is safe to eat for up to 3 days if properly refrigerated, the texture may not be as crisp as freshly made slaw. If you have leftovers, store them promptly in the refrigerator after serving to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage.

Q3: Can I make a lighter version of Creamy Broccoli Slaw?

A: Yes, you can easily make a lighter version of Creamy Broccoli Slaw by making a few simple substitutions:

• Light Mayonnaise: Use light mayonnaise instead of full-fat mayonnaise to significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream. Greek yogurt is lower in fat and calories and higher in protein than sour cream, while still providing a creamy and tangy texture. You can use plain nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt.
• Reduce Sugar: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to lower the sugar content.
• Increase Vinegar: Increase the amount of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to enhance the tanginess and reduce the need for as much creamy dressing.
• Add More Vegetables: Increase the amount of broccoli slaw mix or add other shredded vegetables like cabbage, kale, or bell peppers to increase the vegetable content and bulk up the slaw without adding more dressing.

These modifications can create a lighter and healthier Creamy Broccoli Slaw without sacrificing too much flavor.

Q4: Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Slaw?

A: Freezing Creamy Broccoli Slaw is generally not recommended. The creamy dressing, especially mayonnaise and sour cream-based dressings, tends to separate and become watery when thawed. The texture of the broccoli slaw mix can also become mushy and lose its crispness after freezing and thawing. While it might be technically safe to eat after thawing, the quality and texture of the slaw will likely be significantly compromised. It is best to enjoy Creamy Broccoli Slaw fresh or within a few days of making it and avoid freezing.

Q5: What are some variations I can make to Creamy Broccoli Slaw?

A: Creamy Broccoli Slaw is a versatile base recipe that can be easily adapted with various flavor additions and modifications. Here are some popular variations:

• Sweet and Tangy Slaw: Increase the sugar slightly and add a touch more apple cider vinegar for a sweeter and tangier flavor profile.
• Spicy Slaw: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper (seeds removed) for more heat.
• Asian-Inspired Slaw: Use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar, add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the dressing, and include shredded napa cabbage, edamame, and toasted sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.
• Fruity Slaw: Add diced apples, grapes, or mandarin oranges for a fruity and refreshing variation.
• Nutty Slaw: Add toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a richer nutty flavor and extra crunch.
• Herbaceous Slaw: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or mint to the slaw for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

Experiment with different flavor combinations to create your own signature Creamy Broccoli Slaw variations!

Enjoy making and serving your delicious and refreshing Creamy Broccoli Slaw! It’s a side dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal.

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