Broccoli Salad: A Fresh and Creamy Summer Delight
This Broccoli Salad transforms a nutritional powerhouse into a crowd-pleasing favorite with a creamy dressing and delightful mix-ins. Perfect for summer BBQs and picnics, this raw preparation preserves more nutrients while delivering a satisfying crunch.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets about 2 medium heads, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup red onion finely diced (about 1 small onion)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese cubed or shredded
- 8 slices bacon cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds unsalted
For the creamy dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise sub Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets, ensuring they're roughly the same size for even texture.
- (Optional) If you prefer slightly tender broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately plunge into ice water. Drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to develop fully.
- Serve chilled, giving the salad a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Notes
For the best texture, add the sunflower seeds just before serving.
Fresh broccoli provides the signature crunch that's essential to this dish.
Start with ¾ of the dressing, then add more if needed after chilling.
Save the broccoli stems for stir-fries or soups to reduce food waste.
Fresh broccoli provides the signature crunch that's essential to this dish.
Start with ¾ of the dressing, then add more if needed after chilling.
Save the broccoli stems for stir-fries or soups to reduce food waste.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 9gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 420mgFiber: 4gSugar: 9gVitamin C: 135mg
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