Broccoli Slaw

This broccoli slaw is a delicious combination of crunch and savory-sweet flavors, offering a delightful texture with every bite. The perfect balance of tangy dressing, crunchy ramen noodles, and fresh vegetables makes it a fantastic side dish for any occasion. What’s even better? It tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a quick snack, this slaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is an exciting twist on traditional coleslaw. The addition of ramen noodles gives it a satisfying crunch, while the sweet and tangy dressing elevates the flavor profile. It’s a refreshing dish that’s simple to make, requires minimal prep, and pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Plus, it stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it over several days!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ⅔ cup olive oil

• ⅔ cup white sugar

• ⅓ cup cider vinegar

• 2 (3 ounce) packages chicken ramen noodles, broken

• 10 ounces broccoli coleslaw mix

• ¾ cup sliced almonds

• ¾ cup golden raisins (Optional)

• ½ cup sliced green onions

• ½ cup chopped green bell pepper

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sugar, cider vinegar, and the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli coleslaw mix, broken ramen noodles, sliced almonds, golden raisins (if using), sliced green onions, and chopped green bell pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the slaw and fold it all together until everything is well coated.

4. For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir again before serving to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling time)

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more filling dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the slaw.

• Vegan Option: Skip the chicken ramen seasoning and use a plant-based alternative. You can also replace the honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetness.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.

• No Nuts: If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the almonds and substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop and improve as it sits, so don’t worry if it’s made in advance!

• Reheating: This dish is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make broccoli slaw ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made a few hours in advance or the day before. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld together.

Can I use regular coleslaw mix instead of broccoli slaw?

Yes, you can use regular coleslaw mix if you prefer. The recipe is flexible!

What can I substitute for the ramen noodles?

You can use crispy chow mein noodles or another crunchy snack for a similar texture.

How long does broccoli slaw last in the fridge?

It will last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?

Yes! You can add shredded carrots, red cabbage, or even sliced cucumbers for more color and texture.

Is the sugar necessary for this recipe?

The sugar helps balance the tanginess of the vinegar and gives the slaw its characteristic sweetness. However, you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a less sweet version.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Cider vinegar is ideal for this recipe, but you could substitute with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The ramen noodles in this recipe contain gluten. You can find gluten-free ramen noodles or replace them with another crunchy ingredient, like gluten-free crackers or chow mein noodles.

Can I skip the raisins?

Yes, raisins are optional. You can leave them out or replace them with other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like some heat, add a little bit of sriracha, chili flakes, or even jalapeño slices to the dressing.

Conclusion

Broccoli slaw is the perfect side dish for any occasion, offering the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and crunch. Whether served as a quick lunch or as a side at a BBQ, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy it fresh, or let the flavors develop over a couple of hours—either way, it’s a winner!