This Broccoli, Carrot, and Cauliflower Coleslaw Salad is a colorful, crunchy, and nutritious twist on classic coleslaw. Packed with fresh veggies and tossed in a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a healthy side dish for any meal. The combination of broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower provides a delicious crunch while the creamy dressing adds the perfect amount of tang.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Nutritious: This coleslaw is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.
- Crunchy and Refreshing: The combination of fresh broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower adds texture and a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep time, this salad is quick to assemble and ready to serve.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This coleslaw holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for make-ahead meals or picnics.
Key Ingredients
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped, add a crunchy texture and a boost of nutrients.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color to the salad.
- Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower florets provide a mild flavor and crunchy texture.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, tangy bite to balance the creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
- Greek Yogurt: Lightens up the dressing while adding extra creaminess and tang.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the dressing and helps balance the richness of the mayo.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a little spice and depth to the dressing.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the flavor of the vegetables and dressing.
How to Make Broccoli, Carrot, and Cauliflower Coleslaw Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Finely chop 2 cups of broccoli florets, 2 cups of cauliflower florets, and shred 2 large carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Add 1/2 a small red onion, thinly sliced, to the bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
- Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Coleslaw Salad
- Chop the Vegetables Finely: Finely chopping the broccoli and cauliflower ensures that every bite has a good mix of flavors and textures.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust the amount of honey, vinegar, or mustard to suit your taste preferences. Add more vinegar for tang, or more honey for sweetness.
- Let It Chill: Letting the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the dressing to soak into the vegetables and enhances the flavor.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: For extra crunch and flavor, toss in some sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sliced almonds.
Recipe Variations
- Crunchy Coleslaw: Add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegan Coleslaw: Use a vegan mayonnaise and swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative to make this salad vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Coleslaw: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Slaw with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! This coleslaw can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, as the flavors have time to develop.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir the coleslaw before serving again.
3. Can I use pre-packaged coleslaw mix?
Yes, you can substitute the fresh vegetables with a pre-packaged broccoli slaw mix for convenience. Just make sure to adjust the amount of dressing accordingly.
4. What can I serve with coleslaw salad?
This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, or as a refreshing side for a BBQ. It also makes a great topping for tacos or pulled pork sandwiches
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