Summer Slaw

Introducing your go-to summer salad recipe—a vibrant fusion of flavors that screams aloha! This Summer Slaw brings together crunchy macadamia nuts, vibrant broccoli slaw, sweet pineapple, and bright and fresh kiwi. All embraced by a delightful tangy dressing. It's the perfect addition to your summer barbecues. As an added bonus, it tastes even better when prepared ahead—very ideal for those make-ahead occasions! Love an easy summer slaw? I have several to choose from like this Sweet and Sour Pineapple Slaw or this Coleslaw with Avocado Lime Crema.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This salad is a burst of summer in every bite, offering a refreshing medley of textures and tastes. The blend of crisp broccoli slaw, juicy pineapple, and the unique twist of a golden yellow kiwi, all coated in the tangy dressing, creates an irresistible combination. It's sure to become a seasonal favorite. Think of it as your fresh summer coleslaw that deserves a spotlight at your next summer barbecue next to your potato salad or pasta salad.

Ingredients You Will Need

Broccoli Slaw: A crisp and crunchy salad that comes prepackaged, made from shredded broccoli stems and often includes shredded carrots and some variation of red cabbage or green cabbage too. You can also make your own.

Pineapple: The addition of pineapple in a summer slaw brings a sweet tropical twist. It infuses the dish with a delightful burst of juicy flavor.

Celery: when diced finely, adds a refreshing crunch to a summer slaw.

Orange Bell Pepper: This pepper adds a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch, complementing the celery. For added variety, consider incorporating red bell peppers. Use them as a replacement for the orange ones or as an additional colorful addition to the mix!

Kiwi: Sun Gold yellow kiwi is one of my favorites, with its vibrant yellow flesh. It brings a tangy sweetness to the summer slaw, offering a refreshing twist on traditional green kiwis.

Macadamia Nuts: are rich, buttery nuts derived from the macadamia tree, prized for their creamy texture and flavor.

Avocado Oil Mayonnaise: offers a unique creamy texture and a healthier fat profile.

Forager Project Dairy-Free Sour Cream Alternative: This is a plant-based option with a creamy texture and tangy taste. It provides a delicious substitute for traditional sour cream.

Dijon Mustard: This Noble Made mustard is my preferred mustard brand and imparts a subtle tanginess and a vinegary note. You can use Pennysprimal to save 15%.

Apple Cider Vinegar: a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice that adds acidity and fruity undertones.

Salt and Pepper: salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish and ground black pepper adds a gentle heat.

Instructions

Make the dressing: combine the dressing ingredients in a small mixing bowl and whisk well.

Get the salad ready: in a separate large mixing bowl, add all of the salad ingredients.

Combine everything: pour the dressing over the salad and give it a good toss.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Choose seasonally: Opt for fruits that are in season for the freshest and most vibrant flavors in your Summer Slaw. Seasonal fruits not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the salad's overall freshness.

Let it marinate: Allow the slaw to chill in the fridge for some time before serving. Allowing it to rest enables the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious combination when served.

Recipe Variations

Play with seasonal fruits or other mix-ins: You can experiment by adding sliced strawberries or diced mango to the slaw mix. You could even sprinkle chopped green onions generously over the slaw.

Make it a full meal: Elevate this Summer Slaw into an entree by adding grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or tofu over the slaw mix. You could also use this summer slaw alongside pulled pork sandwiches!

Storage Tips

You can store this Summer Slaw in the fridge for 4-5 days when placed in a sealed airtight glass container.

FAQs About Summer Slaw

What's the difference between coleslaw and slaw?

Coleslaw typically features a creamier coleslaw dressing, often made with vinegar. It incorporates shredded vegetables like cabbage and carrots. In contrast, slaw, especially this Summer Slaw recipe, opts for an easy and lighter dressing. It steers clear of dairy and highlights fresh, diced fruits and broccoli slaw for a refreshing twist on traditional recipes.

What is Dixie slaw?

Dixie slaw, a regional take on coleslaw, often includes a tangy dressing with vinegar, alongside vegetables like shredded cabbage and carrots. Unlike this Summer Slaw variation, Dixie slaw recipes might lean toward a creamier coleslaw dressing. They don't typically include any fruits.

Is coleslaw good or bad for you?

Coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing can lean toward a healthier option, especially when the coleslaw dressing is light on the mayo. A mayo coleslaw tends to be a heavier side dish. This Summer Slaw recipe offers a dairy-free, simple twist on traditional coleslaw recipes. It spotlights fresh vegetables and fruits for a healthier approach. Remember, perceptions of what constitutes a healthier choice can differ from one individual to another.