Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish. Bursting with fresh flavors, crunchy textures, and a tangy dressing, it serves as the perfect side for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad stands out with its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s completely meat-free, dairy-free, and free of refined sugars!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Dressing
• For the Smoky Tamari Almonds
• For Garnish
• How to Make Broccoli Salad
• Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
• Step 2: Make the Dressing
• Step 3: Assemble the Salad
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Broccoli Salad
• As a Side Dish
• In a Wrap
• As a Snack
• On a Bed of Greens
• How to Perfect Broccoli Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Broccoli Salad
• Reheating Broccoli Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Broccoli Salad healthy?
• Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?
• How do I make Broccoli Salad vegan?
• What should I serve with Broccoli Salad?
• How can I make my Broccoli Salad sweeter?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of broccoli, red onions, and dried cranberries creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm days.
• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy addition to any meal.
• Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from the almonds and olive oil, this salad is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or add extra vegetables based on your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious broccoli salad, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for spreading out the nuts evenly while roasting for even crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when baking the crunchy topping.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth dressing by combining all liquid ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 pound broccoli crowns, chopped into ½-inch florets and ¼-inch diced stems
• ⅓ cup diced red onions
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
• 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)

For the Smoky Tamari Almonds

• ½ cup almonds
• ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1 tablespoon tamari
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (more to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss together the almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for about 5 minutes; they will crisp up as they cool down.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, and sea salt until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped broccoli crowns, diced red onions, and dried cranberries into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated. Mix in the roasted almonds and pepitas while saving some for garnish.

Step 4: Serve

Taste your salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with reserved nuts and seeds before serving. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it suitable for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful salad.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats: This salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken or fish perfectly.
• Serve it at potlucks: Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a hit at gatherings and parties.

In a Wrap

• Use it as a filling: Spread the broccoli salad in a whole grain wrap for a nutritious lunch option.
• Add extra protein: Include some chickpeas or tofu for added texture and nutrition.

As a Snack

• Enjoy it solo: A small bowl of broccoli salad makes for a refreshing snack throughout the day.
• Pair with crackers: Serve alongside whole-grain crackers for a satisfying crunch.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a hearty salad: Serve the broccoli salad over mixed greens for an elevated meal.
• Add toppings: Top with grilled shrimp or salmon for extra protein and flavor.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

To create the best broccoli salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Chop broccoli evenly: Ensure all pieces are similar in size for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
• Let the dressing marinate: Allowing the dressing to sit helps flavors meld together beautifully before tossing with the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality oils will elevate the overall taste of your salad.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your dressing before mixing; adjust maple syrup or honey to suit your preference.
• Add crunch last: Mix in your almonds and pepitas just before serving to keep them crispy.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different herbs or spices to customize your broccoli salad to your liking.

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Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, enhancing any meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken: Tender, smoky chicken adds protein and complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well, bringing additional sweetness and crunch to your plate.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty grain dish that balances the lightness of broccoli salad beautifully.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crunchy textures in the salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat make for an exciting accompaniment.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers offer simplicity and flavor that match well with broccoli salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your delicious broccoli salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the almonds and pepitas adds depth of flavor and crunch. Always toast them to enhance your salad.
• Using wilted broccoli: Fresh, crisp broccoli is essential. Choose bright green crowns without yellowing for the best taste and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can drown the flavors. Start with a small amount and add more gradually as needed.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your salad before serving. Adjust salt or add a splash of vinegar if it needs more zing.
• Making it too far in advance: While this salad can sit for a bit, it’s best served fresh. Prepare it no more than a few hours ahead for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• This broccoli salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the broccoli after thawing.
• If necessary, separate ingredients (like nuts) before freezing.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds until warmed through; be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Broccoli Salad healthy?

This broccoli salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and contains no refined sugar or dairy, making it light and wholesome.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like shredded carrots or swap out nuts based on your preference.

How do I make Broccoli Salad vegan?

Simply use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing, and you’re all set for a delicious vegan broccoli salad!

What should I serve with Broccoli Salad?

This versatile salad pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread at cookouts.

How can I make my Broccoli Salad sweeter?

Add more dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Final Thoughts

This lightened-up broccoli salad is not only a delicious side dish but also offers versatility for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any gathering. Enjoy this refreshing dish that everyone will love!