Broccoli Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh, crunchy, and satisfying dish that packs a punch in flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Broccoli salad is an appealing option that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a delightful addition to your weekly meal prep. This salad is not only simple to make, but it also offers a great balance of textures and flavors, with freshness from the veggies and sweetness from the added ingredients. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This broccoli salad brings together crisp broccoli florets, crunchy nuts, and sweet raisins all drizzled with a creamy dressing that will make you want to dive in for seconds! It’s perfect as a side dish, but hearty enough to enjoy as a light lunch. Not only is it packed with vitamins and nutrients, but it also features a medley of flavors that cater to all palates. This salad is versatile and can easily shine as the star of your meal!

Ingredients

• 8 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup red onion, diced
• 1 cup raisins
• ½ cup sunflower seeds, shelled
• ½ cup almond slivers, toasted
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How To Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. This not only makes it aesthetically pleasing but also ensures that each bite delivers that irresistible crunchy goodness.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, raisins, shelled sunflower seeds, and toasted almond slivers. This combination of ingredients guarantees a delightful crunch in every mouthful.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, rice vinegar, honey, and salt until smooth. This creamy dressing offers a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated. Ensure to mix thoroughly so that every piece of broccoli is enveloped in that delicious dressing. You can serve this immediately, but letting it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors even more.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
• Toast the almond slivers lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• This salad can be made up to a day in advance – just give it a good stir before serving.

Variations and Customizations

• Add crispy bacon bits for a savory explosion.
• Incorporate diced apples or grapes for added sweetness and a twist of flavor.
• Swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans if you desire a different nutty flavor.
• Experiment with different vinegars or add a dash of lemon juice for additional tang.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness. If you feel the dressing has thickened, simply stir in a little bit of Greek yogurt or a splash of vinegar before serving again.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?

While fresh broccoli works best in this salad for a crunchy texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it completely before adding it to the mix to avoid excess moisture.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, you can use additional Greek yogurt as a substitute. You might want to adjust the quantity of honey to balance the flavor.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be fantastic additions to make the salad more filling and add a protein boost.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with a vegan mayonnaise or plant-based yogurt. Additionally, you can use agave syrup instead of honey for sweetness.

Conclusion

Broccoli salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and texture that can brighten up any meal. With its simple, flavorful ingredients and the ease of preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or simply looking for a healthy and satisfying side dish, this salad ticks all the boxes. So grab your ingredients, and let’s create a delightful bowl of broccoli salad that everyone will love!