Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love making Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight when I want a refreshing and crunchy salad that surprises everyone. The combination of crisp broccoli and sweet apples is not only a treat for the taste buds but also packed with nutrition. This slaw is perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at dinner. The tangy dressing ties it all together beautifully, and every bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that keeps me going back for more!

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:43:27.661Z

When I first combined broccoli and apples, I was skeptical, but now this slaw is a staple at our gatherings. The freshness of broccoli paired with the sweetness of apples is a game-changer! I’ve even had friends ask for the recipe after a single bite. It’s a beautiful medley of tastes that stands on its own or perfectly complements a main dish.

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple and quick it is to prepare. I often prepare the dressing in a jar to shake it up quickly when I'm ready to serve. Plus, if you let the slaw sit for a bit before enjoying, the flavors meld even better, enhancing the dish even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crunchy texture with a perfect mix of sweet and savory
  • Nutritious blend full of fiber and vitamins
  • Easy to make, yet looks impressive on any table

Understanding the Ingredients

The vibrant colors in this Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight are not just for aesthetics; they play a vital role in flavor and nutrition. Broccoli florets provide a firm crunch and earthy undertone, while apples—especially varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness—offer a refreshing contrast. The inclusion of shredded carrots enhances both the color and sweetness of the slaw, making it visually appealing and packed with vitamins A, C, and K.

Don’t underestimate the impact of red onion in this recipe. Its sharp, slightly sweet flavor balances the sweetness of the apples and the earthiness of the broccoli, creating a well-rounded taste profile. The sunflower seeds not only add a delightful crunch but also introduce healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, contributing to the overall nutritional benefit of the dish.

Making the Perfect Dressing

The dressing for this slaw is simple yet effective, bringing all the ingredients together. Using plain yogurt as a base not only adds creaminess but also tang, which complements the sweet notes of the apples beautifully. Make sure to whisk the dressing thoroughly until smooth; this ensures that the ingredients remain well-blended and every bite of slaw is consistently flavored. A quick taste test can go a long way—add a bit more honey or vinegar to adjust sweetness and acidity according to your preference.

If you're looking for alternatives, consider using Greek yogurt for a thicker texture and more protein. For a dairy-free option, you could substitute with a vegan yogurt. Just be mindful of the flavor; some non-dairy yogurts can be more acidic or sweet, so taste as you go to find the best balance.

Ingredients

The vibrant flavors in this salad shine through with these simple ingredients:

For the Slaw

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
  • 1 medium apple, julienned (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

For the Dressing

  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients together for a delightful dish!

Instructions

Here’s how to whip up this fresh and delicious slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, julienned apple, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, and sunflower seeds.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss well to combine. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes for maximum flavor before serving.

Enjoy this slaw as a side or a light meal!

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Pro Tips

  • Feel free to substitute the apple with another fruit, like pears or grapes, for a different twist! Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight is incredibly versatile as a side dish or a light lunch. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or within a wrap, where the flavors meld beautifully. Adding some protein like chickpeas or shredded chicken can also make it a complete meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Presentation matters, especially for gatherings. For an eye-catching display, serve the slaw in a large, shallow bowl and sprinkle additional sunflower seeds or apple slices on top. A handful of herbs, like parsley or cilantro, can also brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to enjoy this slaw over a couple of days, it’s best to store the dressing separately. This prevents the slaw from becoming soggy, maintaining its delightful crunch for longer. Store the slaw mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and dress it just before serving. This way, you can enjoy fresh flavors without losing texture.

For meal prep, consider making a larger batch on weekends. The slaw can be a fantastic addition to your meal prep routine, offering a nutritious component that pairs with various proteins throughout the week. Just remember to give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing, especially if it has been sitting in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything crunchy.

→ What kind of apples work best?

I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for optimum flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this slaw vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or a simple vinaigrette.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the slaw?

Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or even raisins can add even more crunch and flavor.

Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight

I absolutely love making Broccoli and Apple Slaw Delight when I want a refreshing and crunchy salad that surprises everyone. The combination of crisp broccoli and sweet apples is not only a treat for the taste buds but also packed with nutrition. This slaw is perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at dinner. The tangy dressing ties it all together beautifully, and every bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that keeps me going back for more!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Light & Wholesome

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Slaw

  1. 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
  2. 1 medium apple, julienned (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  3. 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  4. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  5. 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

For the Dressing

  1. 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  2. 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  3. 1 tablespoon honey
  4. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, julienned apple, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, and sunflower seeds.

Step 02

In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 03

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss well to combine. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes for maximum flavor before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Feel free to substitute the apple with another fruit, like pears or grapes, for a different twist! Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 3g