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25 of the Best Broccoli Slaw Recipes

Shredded broccoli has never looked better. These crisp, colorful slaws are packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of crunch

Ollie Cartwright
Updated:

Broccoli slaw is one of those underrated staples that quietly steals the show. It’s endlessly adaptable, easy to prep, and the kind of thing that somehow tastes even better the next day.

These 25 recipes are all about that crunchy shredded goodness. Whether you lean classic and creamy, sharp and tangy, or full-on bold with global flavors, there’s a broccoli slaw here that fits the mood. They’re fast, flexible, and built to go with just about everything you’re cooking (or not cooking).

Classic Broccoli Slaws

These are some of the best broccoli slaw recipes loaded with the classic flavors and textures you'd expect of any slaw recipe

Crunchy Broccoli Slaws

These slaws don't rely so much on creamy dressing but instead use acids like vinegar to keep things crunchy and fresh

Creamy Broccoli Slaws

These creamy dressing recipes make broccoli slaw taste better and more satisfying. Try them for a quick way to upgrade your next meal.

Asian Broccoli Slaws

These recipes mix broccoli with Asian flavors like ginger, sesame, soy, and cilantro for easy, tasty slaw. Try them for a quick side dish that goes with any meal.

Alternative Broccoli Slaws

These broccoli slaws offer a fresh change from traditional recipes. Try them for a simple way to add variety to your meals.

How to Create Your Own Broccoli Slaw

Here’s a simple, methodical guide to creating your own broccoli slaw recipe. The goal is to help you think in patterns. Use this formula to come up with your own combos without the need for a strict recipe:

1. Broccoli Base

Use a 10–12 oz (280–340 g) bag of broccoli slaw or about 4 packed cups of finely shredded broccoli stems and florets. Add to a large mixing bowl.

2. Add Supporting Veg

Aim for 1–2 cups total. Choose ingredients that add contrast. You’ll want to pick 2-3 supporting veg.

Sweet crunch: carrot, bell pepper, apple
Juicy & fresh: cucumber, radish, cherry tomatoes (sparingly)
Sharp & punchy: red onion, scallions, shallot
Herby greens: parsley, dill, coriander, basil, mint

Baseline: 4 cups broccoli + 1 cup veg.
Loaded slaw: 4 cups broccoli + 2 cups veg.

3. Choose a Flavour

Decide the “lane” before you make a dressing. This keeps your slaw focused. You don’t want to have Asian slaw ingredients and then suddenly throw on an Italian dressing!

Creamy classic: mayo or mayo/yogurt, cider vinegar, Dijon
Sesame–lime: rice vinegar, soy sauce, lime, sesame oil, ginger
Mediterranean lemon-herb: olive oil, lemon, garlic, herbs
Southwest smoky: lime, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle, yogurt or mayo

4. Mix Dressing

Think in flexible formulas you can tweak. Here are the ratios you’ll want to use for around 4-6 cups of slaw mix:

Creamy-style dressing:

  • 3 Tbsp creamy base
  • 1–2 Tbsp acid
  • 1–2 tsp sharp element
  • 1–2 tsp sweetness
  • Salt and pepper

Vinaigrette-style dressing:

  • 3 Tbsp oil
  • 1–1½ Tbsp acid
  • 1 tsp sweetness
  • 1 tsp mustard or miso
  • Salt and pepper

Taste and adjust before adding to the vegetables.

5. Add Crunch

Fold in ¼–½ cup of extras for texture, so it’s now all completely soft. Again, consider the style of slaw you have and pick the appropriate add-ins:

Nuts/seeds: sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, almonds, peanuts
Dried fruit: cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots
Cheese: feta, cheddar, blue cheese, queso fresco
Crispy extras: fried onions, toasted panko, crispy chickpeas

Add these at the end so they stay crisp.

6. Toss & Rest

Start with about two-thirds of the dressing. Toss thoroughly. Let the slaw rest for 10–15 minutes so the broccoli softens slightly. Taste again and adjust with tiny amounts of acid, salt, or sweetness as needed.

What Broccoli Slaw Goes With

The good news is that broccoli slaw will go well with just about anything. Here are some of the best dishes you can serve alongside your slaw:

  • Grilled or roasted meats: The slaw’s acidity and crunch balance richer proteins like chicken thighs, pork chops, salmon, shrimp, or sausages.
  • Sandwiches and burgers: Adds moisture and crisp texture to fried chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, pulled pork, or turkey sandwiches.
  • Tacos and wraps: Bright, crunchy slaw contrasts beautifully with fish, shrimp, tofu, or carnitas; limey or sesame dressings work especially well.
  • Grain bowls: A simple way to add freshness and texture to rice, quinoa, lentil, or farro bowls.
  • Picnic and BBQ dishes: Complements classics like baked beans, cornbread, grilled corn, potato salad, and ribs by cutting through sweetness and smoke.
  • Seafood: Great alongside or on top of salmon, white fish, or crab cakes; lemony or herb-heavy slaws fit naturally.

FAQs

Can I Use Store-Bought Broccoli Slaw Mix?

Yes, store-bought broccoli slaw mix is a convenient and time-saving option. It usually includes shredded broccoli stems, carrots, and sometimes red cabbage. Just open the bag and add your favorite dressing or toppings to customize it.

What are Some Good Broccoli Slaw Dressing Mixes?

Popular dressings include creamy mayo-based, tangy vinaigrettes, or even Asian-inspired sauces like sesame ginger. You can also make your own with ingredients like Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. The key is balancing creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors to suit your taste.

How Do I Make a Simple Broccoli Slaw?

Toss a bag of broccoli slaw mix with ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon honey. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well. Let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

How Long Does Broccoli Slaw Last in the Fridge?

Homemade broccoli slaw usually lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. If it’s dressed, it may get soggy over time, so it’s best eaten sooner. For longer freshness, keep the dressing separate until serving.

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