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It's coleslaw's cooler, crunchier cousin!

Broccoli slaw is just like classic coleslaw, but with the crunch and the flavor dialed way up! It's the perfect dish to bring to a summer cookout because not only can it be made ahead, but the flavor gets better over time. Pair it with sweet and smoky ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken for a great summer meal.

This make-ahead dish is very similar to coleslaw, and includes the same classic ingredients—shredded cabbage, matchstick carrots, and a creamy-tart dressing. But as you might guess, broccoli slaw gets extra crunch from broccoli. While the florets are nice because they soak up the dressing like that potluck favorite broccoli salad, the real hero in this side dish is the broccoli stalks. They give every bite a spectacular crunch.

Do I have to shred broccoli stalks for this recipe?

Nope! This recipe offers a nice shortcut—a pre-shredded bag of broccoli slaw mix that is mostly made up of shredded broccoli stalks. If this mix is not available at your local market, simply grate 2 to 3 broccoli stalks using a food processor or the wide holes on your box grater to yield about 2 1/2 cups.

Broccoli is full of healthy vitamins, but the real nutritional star here is the broccoli stalks. They're packed with fiber that is wonderful for digestion and gut health. To lighten the mayonnaise-based dressing, substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt.

12-oz. bag broccoli slaw mix

small broccoli florets (from 1 crown)

roasted salted sunflower kernels, plus more for serving

Use golden raisins instead of regular raisins, if you like. For a hint of tartness, swap the raisins for dried cranberries.