Name: Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup (80 grams) Walnuts; 1 pound (475 grams) Fresh Broccolini (or broccoli); 1 cup (135 grams) Golden Raisins; 1/3 cup (45 grams) Purple Onion, diced small; 1/3 cup (130 grams) Mayonnaise (Vegenease recommended); 1/4 cup (45 grams) Milk (plant-based or whole milk, homemade cashew milk suggested); 2 tablespoons Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Maple Syrup; 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt; Fresh Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 43 reviews

If you’re craving something crunchy, sweet, tangy, and utterly refreshing, the Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. This delightful slaw blends crisp broccoli and broccolini with chewy golden raisins and crunchy toasted walnuts, all brought together by a creamy, slightly sweet dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to share with friends at picnics, potlucks, or just as a vibrant side to brighten up any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with four visible layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is shredded green celery, followed by a pile of golden raisins on the left side. Above the celery and to the right, there are chopped fresh green herbs. Next to the herbs is a group of small, chopped purple onions near the center. On the far right, a pile of whole walnuts adds a warm brown color. A woman's hand is pouring a creamy white dressing over the center of the salad, creating a smooth flowing texture into the bowl. In the background, blurred small white plates hold yellow and purple ingredients, and a lemon is visible. A wooden cutting board with a handle rests on the surface near a white and dark blue striped cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a salad that’s packed with texture and flavor. Every item here plays a key role, whether it’s bringing crunch, sweetness, creaminess, or a pop of tang.

Walnuts (3/4 cup / 80 grams): Toasted to enhance their rich, nutty flavor and add a satisfying crunch.
Fresh Broccolini or Broccoli (1 pound / 475 grams): The star ingredient, providing that fresh, crisp base with vibrant green color.
Golden Raisins (1 cup /135 grams): Sweet bursts of chewy goodness that balance the savory elements.
Purple Onion (1/3 cup / 45 grams, diced): Adds a sharp, slightly spicy kick and beautiful color contrast.
Mayonnaise (1/3 cup / 130 grams): The creamy binder — I love using Vegenaise for its smooth, rich texture.
Milk (1/4 cup / 45 grams): Either plant-based or whole, to loosen the dressing and add a silky feel (cashew milk is my favorite!).
Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the dressing with zesty freshness; zest is also recommended for an extra lemony punch.
Maple Syrup (1 teaspoon): A gentle touch of natural sweetness that perfectly balances the tang.
Sea Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to elevate all the flavors.
Fresh Ground Pepper: To finish off with a subtle peppery warmth.

How to Make Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Walnuts

Start by bringing out the walnuts’ full, toasty flavor. You can choose the stovetop or oven method. On the stovetop, keep the heat at medium-low and gently toss the walnuts often to avoid burning. If you prefer the oven, 325°F for about 15 minutes will do the trick. Let them cool before roughly chopping — that crunch will really shine in your slaw.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli and Broccolini

Trim the florets into bite-sized pieces and chop any tender leaves that are in good shape. The little flower heads that fall off can be tossed right in—they add extra texture and visual interest. Use a food processor with a coarse grater attachment to shred the stalks; this prevents waste and adds a wonderful crunch to each bite.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together your prepared broccoli florets, leaves, shredded stalks, golden raisins, toasted walnuts, and finely diced purple onion. This colorful combination is the heart of your slaw—each ingredient adding unique texture and flavor layers.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and sea salt until silky smooth. The balance of tangy, sweet, and rich elements in this dressing is what makes this Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Grind some fresh black pepper over the top, toss again, and then taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch more salt or lemon juice if you want to brighten it up.

Step 6: Chill and Rest

For best flavor, cover and refrigerate your slaw for at least an hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the textures to harmonize into the perfect bite. Try not to sneak a fork early—it’s hard, but worth the wait!

How to Serve Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe

A clear glass bowl holds a fresh broccoli salad with visible layers of small dark green broccoli florets, light green shredded vegetables, golden raisins, and chopped brown nuts mixed evenly. A wooden spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the salad. Behind the bowl, there are two small white dishes, one with yellow raisins and another with chopped red onions, placed on a white marbled surface. A whole yellow lemon and a white cloth with thin black stripes are positioned to the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few extra toasted walnuts or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of lemon zest can also amplify the citrus notes and make it look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This slaw pairs beautifully alongside grilled meats, crispy fried chicken, or even a hearty sandwich. It’s a fresh, crunchy contrast to rich dishes and brightens up anything from casual family dinners to elegant outdoor gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe in a large wooden bowl for rustic charm or in individual mini mason jars for a fun, portable picnic treat. You could also hollow out a bell pepper or tomato and fill it with the slaw for a colorful edible bowl that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. Because the dressing keeps the broccoli crisp and flavorful, you won’t lose that satisfying crunch even after a day or two.

Freezing

This recipe is not ideal for freezing since the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh veggies may separate or become watery upon thawing. For freshest texture and flavor, enjoy it within a few days of making.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this slaw — it’s delightful served chilled or at room temperature. Just give it a gentle toss before serving if it has been stored in the fridge to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I substitute broccoli for broccolini?

Absolutely! You can use fresh broccoli instead of broccolini; just make sure to slice the stalks thinly to maintain that light, crunchy texture this Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe is known for.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you prefer dairy-free or lighter options, try using vegan mayo, plain Greek yogurt, or a mix of olive oil and a bit of tahini for a unique twist on the dressing.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

To make it nut-free, simply omit the walnuts and add toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. They provide a similar nutty crunch without the allergens.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for at least an hour as the flavors meld. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

This salad is perfect for meal prep as long as you keep it properly stored in the fridge. The crunchy textures and bold flavors hold up well over a few days.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about the crunchy bite of broccoli paired with sweet golden raisins and toasted walnuts, all hugged by a creamy citrusy dressing. The Fresh Broccoli Slaw with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings color, texture, and balanced flavors to your table effortlessly. Give it a try the next time you want a fresh, wholesome side that’s just bursting with personality — I promise it will quickly become one of your favorites too!