Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad is a delightful and healthful dish that brings a fresh twist to any meal. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or as a light lunch option. With its crunchy veggies, tangy dressing, and sweet cranberries, this salad stands out for its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s entirely free from meat, dairy, and refined sugar, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

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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 Standalone Dish
• With Grilled Meats
• Alongside Sandwiches
• At Potlucks
• With Whole Grains
• As a Light Appetizer
• 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 is Broccoli Salad?
• Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time?
• What can I substitute in this Broccoli Salad?
• How long does Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?
• Can I use different dressings for my Broccoli Salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, this salad is an effortless addition to your meal.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of smoky tamari almonds and sweet cranberries elevates the classic broccoli salad into something special.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any occasion—whether it’s a barbecue or a family dinner—this salad fits right in.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and healthy fats from nuts, this dish supports balanced eating.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to save time on busy days while still enjoying a fresh salad.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Broccoli Salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the almonds and pepitas evenly without burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even flavor throughout the salad.

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) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-14 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Let them cool for about 5 minutes; they will crisp up as they cool.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped broccoli crowns, diced red onions, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently to coat well. Mix in most of the roasted almonds and pepitas while reserving some for garnish on top.

Step 4: Serve

Taste your salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle reserved nuts and seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your vibrant Broccoli Salad!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, serving this salad can elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad shines on its own, providing a refreshing and healthy option for lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair broccoli salad with grilled chicken or steak to create a balanced meal filled with flavor and nutrients.

Alongside Sandwiches

• Serve it as a side with sandwiches for an easy picnic lunch or quick weekday meal.

At Potlucks

• Broccoli salad is perfect for potlucks; it’s easy to make in large batches and always a crowd-pleaser.

With Whole Grains

• Enjoy it alongside quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

As a Light Appetizer

• Offer small portions of broccoli salad as a starter at gatherings to whet your guests’ appetites.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

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

• Choose Fresh Broccoli: Opt for vibrant green broccoli crowns that are firm. Fresh ingredients make all the difference.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences. A little extra lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate various nuts or seeds beyond almonds and pepitas. Walnuts or sunflower seeds also add delightful crunch.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or even fruits such as apples for added sweetness.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan options if you’re catering to dietary preferences while keeping it delicious.

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Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad makes an excellent accompaniment, but pairing it with other side dishes can enhance your meal further. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn complements the tanginess of broccoli salad perfectly.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add heartiness, making your meal more filling and satisfying.
3. Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw offers crunch and creaminess that pairs excellently with the fresh flavors of broccoli salad.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a colorful addition that enhances any cookout plate.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with the savory elements of broccoli salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances out savory dishes, offering refreshing notes alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using stale nuts: Nuts can go rancid and ruin your salad. Always use fresh, roasted nuts for the best flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Not cooling the nuts properly: If you don’t let the nuts cool after roasting, they won’t achieve that perfect crunch. Allow them to cool completely before mixing them in.
• Neglecting seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to blandness. Taste your salad and adjust salt or acidity to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the marination time: Letting the salad sit for a bit allows flavors to meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it can affect texture; however, if needed, use a freezer-safe container.
• Consume within one month for best quality.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until just heated through, but not soggy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring gently until heated through but be careful not to cook it further.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Broccoli Salad?

Broccoli salad is a vibrant dish made primarily with raw broccoli, often mixed with various vegetables, nuts, and a tangy dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish perfect for any meal.

Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare broccoli salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute in this Broccoli Salad?

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping pepitas with sunflower seeds or adding other veggies like carrots or bell peppers.

How long does Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, broccoli salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use different dressings for my Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! While this recipe features a creamy dressing, you can experiment with vinaigrettes or other dressings based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make it an excellent choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give it a try and discover how this fresh twist on a classic can brighten up your meals!

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