Balsamic Broccoli Slaw Recipe

This balsamic broccoli slaw recipe is simple to make and packed with fresh, bold flavors for a perfect side dish or light meal. It’s wonderful to take to any family gathering or BBQ!

If you are looking for more easy salad recipes like this one check these out! Southwest Quinoa Salad, Quinoa Tabouli Salad , Cilantro Lime Shrimp, Avocado, Chickpea Salad

Broccoli Slaw with Balsamic Dressing

By now you may know that I am all about easy recipes. This crunchy broccoli slaw is one of my favorite delicious and easy side dishes to make for summer get-togethers or even a healthy, light lunch. If you want to make it more of a “meal”, adding this Italian grilled chicken to it is fabulous by the way!

The only raw broccoli salad I have ever had (growing up a Southern girl) was my mom’s salad made with mayonnaise and raisins. Not that I don’t love that mayo version too, but this simple broccoli slaw a fun twist on traditional coleslaw is just so good!

The combination of fresh vegetables and crunchy toppings make this great recipe irresistible.  Plus, it’s a big ole bonus that it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for so many occasions.

 Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to gather to make this recipe. Scroll all the way down for the full recipe card with amounts.

• Broccoli Slaw Mix:  I use a bag broccoli slaw that has shredded broccoli and carrots, and usually red cabbage. You can find bags of it in most produce departments.
• Olive oil: I like using a quality EVOO. You can also use avocado oil.
• Balsamic vinegar:  Use any favorite brand or regular or white balsamic.
• Sugar: cuts the acidity just perfectly. You can leave it out if you’d like to.
• Garlic powder: You can also use a couple of cloves of minced garlic.
• Beef Ramen noodles: Break into pieces for the crunch.
• Sliced almonds: For added crunch. 
• Roasted sunflower seeds: You can use raw seeds as well.
• Optional: the seasoning pack from the ramen noodles can be added to the dressing mixture if you’d like.

Variations/Substitutions

1. Use apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar. Or even a red wine vinegar.
2. Swap the sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts or pecans.
3. Add a few dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
4. Add in sliced red or green bell pepper or sliced green onion.
5. Swap the olive oil for toasted sesame oil for extra flavor.
6. You can completely skip making your own dressing and use a bottle of your favorite classic coleslaw dressing. A honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette would also be a great swap.

How to Make this Broccoli Slaw Recipe

Step 1:  Pour the package of broccoli slaw into a large mixing bowl.

 Step 2:  Whisk together the dressing ingredients of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder in a dish.

Step 3: Add the broken-up ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds. 

Step 4: Pour the slaw dressing over the salad and toss until everything is completely coated. 

Step 5: Let the slaw refrigerate for least an hour before serving for the flavors to meld.

Tips

• For extra flavor, toast the almonds and seeds before adding them to the slaw.  You can bake them at 350° F for 5-7 minutes, stirring a couple of times. Or microwave them for on a paper towel for 30 seconds then stir and repeat for another 30 seconds.
• Although you can eat it right away, it is even better when you refrigerate the slaw for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
• For an extra tangy flavor, add lemon juice.
• If you can’t find store bought broccoli slaw mix, you can pulse carrots and broccoli florets and/or broccoli stems in a food processor or use a hand shredder to grate your own shredded broccoli slaw. My food processor comes with a shredding attachment that is so convenient.

How to Store Leftover Coleslaw

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This slaw does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables. It is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQ’s

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