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Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Salad

A fresh, crunchy, and vibrant Broccoli Salad combining crisp broccoli florets with creamy, tangy, and sweet ingredients. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a side dish at any gathering. Easy to prepare, versatile, nutritious, and customizable to fit any taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (firm, dark green)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut into bite-sized florets. For a slightly softer texture, blanch the florets in boiling water for one minute, then plunge into ice water to keep the crunch.
  2. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the broccoli florets, chopped red onion, crispy bacon pieces, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Give it a final toss before serving and enjoy the refreshing crunch with every bite.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli with tight green florets for maximum crunch and flavor.
  • Toast sunflower seeds or nuts lightly to intensify their flavor and add crunch.
  • If dressing feels too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice for easier mixing.
  • Prepare the salad a few hours ahead but add crunchy toppings like bacon just before serving to maintain texture.
  • Taste as you go and adjust sweetness, acidity, and saltiness to your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, healthy salad, crunchy salad, picnic salad, creamy salad, gluten free salad, easy salad