Keto Broccoli Slaw: A Tasty, Healthy Twist

Broccoli slaw is a versatile, tasty, and healthy side dish that can be served with a variety of meals. It is a great option for those on a keto diet as it is low-carb and can be made with a range of keto-friendly ingredients. Broccoli slaw can be made with store-bought broccoli slaw mix or by shredding broccoli stalks at home. The dish is typically served cold and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for potlucks, parties, and gatherings. It can also be customised with a range of ingredients such as nuts, bacon, cheese, and avocado.

Broccoli slaw ingredients

Broccoli slaw is a versatile dish that can be served as a side, on sandwiches or burgers, or as part of a potluck or cookout. It is a mix between broccoli salad and creamy coleslaw, with a variety of possible ingredients and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary requirements.

Broccoli

The main ingredient in broccoli slaw is, of course, broccoli. This can be prepared in a few different ways. You can use raw broccoli, or buy broccoli with the stems and cut the crown from the stems, cutting everything into small florets. Broccoli stems can be tough, so it is recommended to use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer before slicing them into thin matchsticks or grating them. Alternatively, you can use a food processor to grate the broccoli. If you are short on time, you can use prepackaged bags of shredded broccoli, which may also include other vegetables like carrots and purple cabbage.

Fruits

Fruits are often added to broccoli slaw to give it a sweet element. Popular choices include shredded or diced Granny Smith apples, raisins, dried cranberries, or pears. These can be tossed in with the other ingredients or stirred in right before serving.

Seeds and Nuts

Seeds and nuts add a crunchy texture to the slaw. Sunflower seeds are the most traditional choice, but other options include blanched almonds, sliced or chopped almonds, pecans, pistachios, or walnuts.

Dressing

The dressing for broccoli slaw is typically creamy and mayo-based, but there are many variations. Here are some common ingredients used in broccoli slaw dressing:

• Mayonnaise (regular, low-fat, or vegan)
• Vinegar (white, white wine, or apple cider)
• Sugar, maple syrup, or honey
• Dijon mustard
• Celery seed
• Salt and pepper
• Toasted sesame oil
• Greek yogurt

Broccoli slaw dressing

Broccoli slaw is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, including keto. The dressing is a key component of this dish, and here are some tips and options for creating a delicious keto-friendly broccoli slaw dressing:

Ingredients:

The base of the dressing can be made with a combination of healthy fats and acidic components. Here are some suggestions:

• Avocado oil mayo: Avocado oil mayo is a popular choice for keto dieters as it contains zero carbs and plenty of fat to keep you satisfied. It also has a great taste and can be used as a base for your dressing.
• Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavour to the dressing and is a healthy fat option.
• Apple cider vinegar: This ingredient adds a tangy flavour to the dressing.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C and a bright, acidic note to the dressing.
• Sour cream: Sour cream adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour to the dressing.
• Mustard: Dijon mustard or any other type of mustard can be added for a bit of spice and flavour.
• Celery seeds: These tiny seeds add a unique flavour and a subtle crunch to the dressing.

Sweeteners:

While broccoli slaw typically contains sugar, keto-friendly alternatives can be used instead. Here are some options:

• Sugar substitutes: There are various sugar substitutes available that are suitable for keto, such as erythritol, xylitol, stevia, or a blend of these. You can adjust the amount to your taste preferences.
• Dried cranberries: If you're looking for a natural sweetness, sugar-free dried cranberries can be added to the slaw. Just be sure to check the label to ensure they are truly keto-friendly.

Additional Flavours:

To enhance the flavour of your broccoli slaw, consider adding the following:

• Salt and pepper: Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onions can be added to the slaw for a mild onion flavour and a pop of colour.
• Green onions: Also known as scallions, these onions add a mild onion flavour and a crisp texture.
• Spices: You can add various spices to your dressing to give it a kick, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or chilli powder.

Preparation:

The preparation of the dressing is simple:

• Combine the ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the base ingredients (avocado oil mayo, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sour cream, mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper).
• Adjust to taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning or sweetener as needed.
• Mix with the slaw: Pour the dressing over the broccoli slaw and toss to combine.
• Chill: For best results, cover and refrigerate the slaw for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavours to blend.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours to create a keto broccoli slaw dressing that suits your taste preferences!

How to make broccoli slaw

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make broccoli slaw:

• Broccoli slaw
• Sunflower seeds
• Dried cranberries
• Green onions
• Avocado oil
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sweetener
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley leaves
• Avocado oil mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise)
• Whole celery seed

Optional Ingredients

• Nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• Bacon
• Red onions
• Red cabbage
• Carrots
• Shredded cheese
• Toasted almonds
• Chives
• Walnuts
• Goat cheese
• Spiced pecans
• Pepper jack
• Avocado
• Olives
• Vegan cheese
• Shredded red cabbage strips
• Dash of keto-friendly sweetener

Method

• Place the broccoli slaw in a medium-sized bowl. Top it with sunflower seeds, green onions, and cranberries.
• Prepare the sauce by mixing avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, sweetener, and lemon juice with a whisk. You can also add other ingredients like nuts, bacon, or red onions to the slaw for extra flavour and texture.
• Pour the sauce over the slaw and gently toss to combine.
• Serve the broccoli slaw immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavours blend and the dressing soften the broccoli.

Tips

• It is recommended to use store-bought broccoli slaw to save time and effort.
• If you prefer to shred your own broccoli stalks, simply julienne or shred them with a box grater.
• For the best flavour and texture, it is advisable to let the broccoli slaw sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight before serving.
• Broccoli slaw is best served within 3 days of preparation and stored in an airtight container.

Broccoli slaw variations

There are many ways to vary your keto broccoli slaw, from adding nuts, seeds, or fruit, to swapping out the vegetables or changing the dressing. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Nuts and seeds: Sprinkle on some almonds, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and flavour.
• Bacon: Add some crispy bacon bits for a salty, savoury kick. This also adds extra protein if serving the slaw as a main course.
• Onions: Include chopped red onions or green onions for a mild onion flavour.
• Cheese: Grated or crumbled cheese, such as cheddar or goat cheese, adds a creamy, savoury element.
• Spices and herbs: Try adding some fresh or dried herbs like parsley or dill, or a pinch of spices like chilli or smoked paprika for a kick.
• Sweetener: For a sweeter slaw, add a dash of keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
• Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables, such as shredded red cabbage, cucumber, or grated carrot.
• Dressing: The standard dressing for keto broccoli slaw is made with avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, and a sweetener. However, you can also try using mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, or mustard.

Feel free to experiment and add your favourite ingredients to create a unique and tasty keto broccoli slaw!

Broccoli slaw storage

Broccoli slaw is best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for up to five days, but it is best consumed within the first three days as the vegetables tend to lose their texture after that.

If you're using a pre-made broccoli slaw mix, it's a good idea to check the packaging for storage instructions.

Frequently asked questions