Are you ready to elevate your salad game? This broccoli salad recipe is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients. Featuring crunchy broccoli, nuts, and a zesty dressing, it’s a delightful accompaniment to any meal or a satisfying dish on its own. Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings, this salad will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with no additional cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Dice the red onion finely and add to the bowl with the broccoli.
4. Add the raisins and sunflower seeds to the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
6. Whisk the dressing until smooth and well blended.
7. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
8. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this salad by substituting ingredients. For instance, swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds.
Serving and Pairings
This broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or as a side dish for any summer BBQ. It also makes a great lunch option when served with whole grain bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold and does not need reheating. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should be crisp.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the chilling time; it enhances the taste.
– Avoid too much salt; adjust to your preference.
– Don’t mix the salad too vigorously; it can bruise the ingredients.
Helpful Tips
– Try adding chopped apples for extra sweetness.
– Use a variety of cheeses for different flavors.
– Make it ahead of time for easy meal prep.
– Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
It’s best to use fresh broccoli for optimal texture and flavor. Frozen broccoli can become mushy when thawed.
How long can I store the broccoli salad?
You can store broccoli salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best consumed fresh.
Can I add protein to the salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu can be excellent additions to make it more filling.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette can be great alternatives if you prefer a lighter dressing.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and is ideal for meal prepping for the week.
Conclusion
This broccoli salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor and nutrition. It’s versatile, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual lunches to festive dinners. Enjoy this crunchy, zesty dish that everyone will love!
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your choice
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the red onion finely and add to the bowl with the broccoli.
- Add the raisins and sunflower seeds to the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
- Whisk the dressing until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
