If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing way to elevate your salad game, this Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with crunchy broccoli slaw, sweet dried cranberries, and a tangy, creamy dressing, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. It’s not only a colorful addition to any meal but also a breeze to make, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and zesty notes that your taste buds will thank you for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe is key to its success. Each component adds its own delightful touch, from the crisp crunch of broccoli slaw to the nutty richness of almonds. This combination creates a harmony of fresh and sweet flavors that make the dish truly stand out.
- Broccoli slaw mix (2 bags, 16 oz each): This forms the crunchy and fresh base, giving the slaw its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Fresh parsley (â…“ cup, chopped): Adds a bright, herbal freshness that lightens the whole dish.
- Green onions (¾ cup, chopped): Brings a mild pungency and subtle bite that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Dried cranberries (1½ cups): Their chewy texture and natural sweetness are essential to make this slaw irresistibly tangy and colorful.
- Sliced almonds (¾ cup): Introduce a lovely nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of other ingredients.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes (¾ cup, chopped): Bursting with juiciness, these add bright pops of red and refreshing flavor.
- Mayonnaise (¾ cup): Creates a creamy dressing that binds all the flavors together without overpowering them.
- Seasoned salt (1 tsp, or to taste): Enhances the overall taste with subtle complexity.
- Apple cider vinegar (3 Tbsp): Adds a pleasant tang that lifts the dressing and balances the sweetness.
- Sugar (3 Tbsp): Just enough to mellow the vinegar and highlight the natural sweetness in the cranberries and tomatoes.
- Fresh black pepper (to taste): Provides a gentle heat that rounds out the flavors flawlessly.
How to Make Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Fresh Ingredients
Begin by combining the broccoli slaw mix, chopped fresh parsley, green onions, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and chopped tomatoes in a large bowl. This step is where the magic starts, creating a vibrant salad base filled with a variety of textures and flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
Next, whisk together the mayonnaise, seasoned salt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and fresh black pepper until smooth and well combined. This dressing will bring a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the crunch and bite of the vegetables.
Step 3: Combine and Toss to Coat
Pour the dressing over your colorful slaw mixture and toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated with that luscious, flavorful dressing.
Step 4: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Cover the slaw and refrigerate it for at least 3 to 4 hours before serving. This resting time allows the ingredients to meld together and develop a deeper, more balanced flavor that truly elevates this Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe.
How to Serve Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra sliced almonds or a few fresh parsley leaves on top before serving adds a lovely visual appeal and a bit of extra crunch, making the dish feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, barbecued meats, or even as a bright side for your favorite sandwiches or tacos. Its fresh crunch and sweet-tart flavor make it a versatile companion that livens up any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe in individual mason jars for a charming picnic or potluck presentation. You can also use it as a vibrant topping on burgers or wraps, transforming simple meals into exciting flavor experiences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The slaw will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, and flavors often improve as they mingle over time.
Freezing
Because of the fresh veggies and creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended for this Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe, as it can alter the texture and flavor once thawed.
Reheating
This slaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. Simply give it a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of broccoli slaw mix?
Absolutely! You can finely chop fresh broccoli florets and stems for a similar crunch, though the pre-packaged slaw mix saves time and often includes shredded carrots for extra color and sweetness.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
If you prefer a lighter or vegan option, Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo works wonderfully to keep the creamy texture without losing flavor.
Is it possible to make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better if you make it a few hours or even a day ahead so the flavors have time to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered and chilled until ready to serve.
Can I add other nuts or seeds instead of almonds?
Certainly! Walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds make excellent alternatives and add their unique crunch and taste to the slaw.
How can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing?
Feel free to tweak the sugar and apple cider vinegar amounts to fit your palate. Adding a bit more sugar will enhance sweetness, while extra vinegar will amp up the tangy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe is one of those dishes that brings joy to your table with little effort. It’s fresh, colorful, delicious, and wonderfully versatile—perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easy and satisfying a homemade slaw can be. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Print
Broccoli Cranberry Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 3-4 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and crunchy Broccoli Cranberry Slaw that combines the crispness of broccoli slaw mix with the tartness of dried cranberries, the crunch of sliced almonds, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, this slaw is easy to prepare and ideal for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Slaw Mix
- 2 (16-oz) bags broccoli slaw mix
- â…“ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¾ cup chopped green onions
- 1½ cups dried cranberries
- ¾ cup sliced almonds
- ¾ cup chopped cherry or grape tomatoes
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp seasoned salt (or to taste)
- 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- fresh black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Combine Slaw Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli slaw mix, chopped fresh parsley, green onions, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and chopped cherry or grape tomatoes until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, seasoned salt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and fresh black pepper until smooth and well combined to create the dressing.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to chill thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute seasoned salt with a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt if you prefer a homemade seasoning blend.
- For a lighter version, consider using low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise.
- Additions like shredded carrots or thinly sliced red cabbage can add extra color and crunch.
- The slaw keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but is best consumed fresh for optimal texture.
- Toast the almonds lightly before adding for extra flavor and crunch.
