Easy Broccoli Slaw that comes together in minutes — a fresh, crunchy side dish perfect for barbecues and summer gatherings.
Broccoli Slaw Recipe
I’m always excited when the weekend arrives, and this Broccoli Slaw has become a summer favorite around here. It’s simple to make, bright, and perfect for outdoor meals, potlucks, or a quick weeknight side.
Ingredients
Below is a quick overview of the ingredients. The recipe card further down the page lists precise measurements and step-by-step instructions.
Broccoli Slaw
- Pre-shredded broccoli slaw mix (or shred broccoli stalks if needed)
- Slivered almonds
- Apple, chopped
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Green onion, thinly sliced (reserve a little for garnish)
- Blue cheese, crumbled (reserve a little for garnish)
Optional add-ins: sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, golden raisins, shredded red cabbage, kosher salt.
Dressing
- Apple cider vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Light mayonnaise (or a substitute)
- Salt and pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Whisk
How to make Broccoli Slaw
Full instructions are available in the printable recipe card below; here’s a short version to get you started.
Step 1 — Combine all slaw ingredients in a large bowl and toss gently to mix.
Step 2 — In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning; add more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
Step 3 — Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is evenly coated. Chill for a few hours for best flavor, tossing occasionally. Garnish with reserved green onions and blue cheese before serving.
Preparation and Storage
Make-ahead & Storage: This salad is make-ahead friendly. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy leftovers within three days. You can dress it before refrigerating or store the dressing separately and let guests dress their own bowls.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the vegetable mix, store it without dressing in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add fresh dressing when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
Substitutions: Use equal parts light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to lighten the dressing. Add sunflower seeds or extra shredded carrots for more crunch.
Vegetarian: The recipe is vegetarian as written.
Vegan: Make it vegan by swapping blue cheese, honey, and mayonnaise for plant-based alternatives (vegan mayo and a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese).
Gluten-Free: Generally gluten-free, but check the Dijon mustard label if you are highly sensitive.
Scale: The recipe yields about four servings (using 12 ounces or three cups of broccoli slaw). Adjust quantities to suit your needs.
Make it Spicy: Stir a pinch of chili powder, red pepper flakes, or cayenne into the dressing, or add a few drops of hot sauce.
Sugar-Free: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener to reduce sugar content.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Slaw
- Using a pre-shredded grocery bag of broccoli slaw saves time. If unavailable, shred broccoli stalks with a food processor or box grater.
- Chill the slaw for a few hours after dressing — the flavors meld and the texture becomes more refreshing.
What to Serve with Broccoli Slaw
This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, casseroles, and classic barbecue sides — it’s a versatile salad that complements many summer menus. Serve it alongside your favorite mains and other light sides for a balanced meal.
When to Serve
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Potluck
- Barbecue / Cookout
- Summer party
Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Ingredients
Broccoli Slaw
- 12 Ounce Broccoli Slaw
- ½ Cup slivered almonds
- 1 Cup apple, chopped
- ⅓ Cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (reserve a little for garnish)
- 1 Cup Blue Cheese, crumbled (reserve a little for garnish)
Dressing
- ¼ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- 2 teaspoons light Mayonnaise
- ¼ Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
Instructions
- Add all slaw ingredients to a large bowl and toss to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning; add more honey if desired.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and mix until evenly coated.
- Chill for a few hours, tossing occasionally. Garnish with reserved green onions and blue cheese before serving.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Whisk
Nutrition
Recipe originally shared on June 12, 2015. Updated December 2020, August 2023.