Forget Classic Coleslaw: Make It With This Veggie Instead

We've discussed big mistakes when making coleslaw, but maybe the biggest mistake of all is sticking with classic cabbage, which can get stodgy and unappetizing when dressed. To set the record straight, a lot of us actually really like coleslaw. But, for our money, broccoli slaw is where it's at, because it's better in just about every measurable way. Broccoli has a stronger flavor than most varieties of cabbage, first of all, which means that the resulting slaw has more character. Broccoli's robust texture can also stand up to even the creamiest dressing, making a salad that's a textural treat. 

This is all to say nothing of the fact that broccoli is incredibly good for you. Broccoli is a whole-body health booster, promoting stronger bones, better digestion, and improved cardiac health. It's also good for your brain and packed full of antioxidants. Why wouldn't you want a bowl of chilled, delicious slaw featuring broccoli as the main component? 

If you've ever agonized over how to store broccoli in the fridge, know that deploying it in slaw is a great way to use it up (with almost zero waste, too, since you can incorporate both the florets and the stalks). We think it's going to satisfy many of the picky eaters at your table, because it's a dish so yummy that it doesn't feel like you're dutifully eating your vegetables. You can even cheat and grab a bag of ready-made broccoli slaw base at the grocery store. Add a dressing and some fun supporting characters, and you have a slaw that eats just as heartily in the dead of winter as at a summer BBQ.

We discussed additions to upgrade store-bought coleslaw, and we've found that there are just as many magic ingredients to transform a head of broccoli or a bag of mix into a delicious slaw ... you just need to get a little creative! A classic slaw dressing like you'd use for coleslaw, made from some combination of mayo, vinegar, and sugar, will certainly sing in a broccoli slaw with its additional texture to keep it from going mushy, but why stop there? We think a great broccoli slaw will also incorporate nuts and seeds for extra crunch, along with some dried fruit for sweetness. Keeping that general formula in mind — broccoli plus a nut or seed plus dried fruit — opens you up to a world of flavors!

We're not adverse to taking our broccoli slaw in an Asian direction with a sweet and tangy dressing built on soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, along with the crisp additions of red bell pepper, shredded carrot, and green onions. Want to get really out there? How about a spoonful of peanut butter for some protein and umami goodness? Adding extra veggies to broccoli slaw is generally a brilliant idea, too. Red onion adds a mellow sweetness and bite that complements hearty broccoli, but, if you want to lean more in a coleslaw-esque direction, go back to basics and throw some shredded cabbage in there! If you want Italian savor in your bowl, add pine nuts, pesto, and some roasted tomatoes. Whatever your choice, you'll find that broccoli is a great base for tons of flavor directions, making a slaw that's yummy and nutritious all at once.