Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and crunchy textures, it stands out at potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. This salad features a tangy dressing, smoky tamari almonds, and sweet cranberries, making it a delightful addition to your meal plan. Plus, it’s entirely meat-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free!

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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
• Pair with Grilled Dishes
• Add to Picnic Platters
• Make It a Meal
• 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 the best way to serve Broccoli Salad?
• Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?
• How do I know if my almonds are roasted properly?
• Is this Broccoli Salad vegan-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of broccoli with a zesty dressing brings refreshing flavors in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for barbecues, holiday meals, or as a light lunch option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and healthy fats from nuts.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to let the flavors meld for an even better taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful broccoli salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your broccoli and other ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting the nuts evenly without overcrowding.

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, toss together the almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-14 minutes or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool for about five minutes; they will become crispier as they cool.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped broccoli crowns, diced red onions, and dried cranberries into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Mix in the roasted almonds and pepitas while reserving some for garnish.

Step 4: Serve

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

This easy recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Serving broccoli salad is a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right accompaniments. This fresh and crunchy dish can enhance any meal, making it a versatile option for various occasions.

Pair with Grilled Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the tangy dressing in the salad.
• BBQ Ribs: The sweetness from the ribs contrasts nicely with the crunch of the salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and flavor alongside this refreshing dish.

Add to Picnic Platters

• Cheese Platter: Including various cheeses can elevate your picnic experience.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: These pair well for a light, balanced meal outdoors.
• Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides a nice contrast to the savory elements of broccoli salad.

Make It a Meal

• Quinoa Bowl: Top your broccoli salad with quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Stuffed Pitas: Fill pitas with broccoli salad for an easy handheld meal option.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

Creating the perfect broccoli salad involves attention to detail and a few simple tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green crowns.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust sweetness or acidity in your dressing by adding more maple syrup or vinegar as needed.
• Include Textures: Make sure to mix in crunchy elements like nuts or seeds for added dimension.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or shredded carrots for more variety.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your salad before serving and adjust seasonings accordingly.

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Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread offers a comforting contrast to the fresh salad.
2. Coleslaw: This classic dish adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the flavors of broccoli salad.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a seasonal touch that’s perfect alongside this dish.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes add heartiness and complement the freshness of broccoli salad.
5. Caprese Skewers: These colorful skewers provide a fresh, Italian-inspired flavor that pairs well.
6. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with the tangy elements in your salad.
7. Deviled Eggs: Creamy deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser and add richness to your meal.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries are a fun side that adds sweetness without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing a broccoli salad. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the dressing: Many forget to mix the dressing well, leading to uneven flavor. Always whisk until fully combined for the best taste.
• Overcooking the nuts: Burning your smoky tamari almonds can ruin the dish. Keep an eye on them while baking to ensure they’re golden, not burnt.
• Not seasoning enough: A bland salad is unappealing. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or vinegar if necessary.
• Using old ingredients: Freshness matters! Check that your broccoli and cranberries are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can lead to soggy salad. Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• If you must freeze, store without the dressing and almonds.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This method keeps it crisp.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container; heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Broccoli Salad?

Serving chilled enhances its refreshing flavors. Pair it with grilled dishes for a perfect cookout side.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like shredded carrots or swap dried cranberries for raisins.

How do I know if my almonds are roasted properly?

Look for a golden brown color and smell a nutty aroma. Avoid burning by checking them frequently while baking.

Is this Broccoli Salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! You can use vegan mayonnaise to keep this dish completely plant-based.

Final Thoughts

This lightened-up broccoli salad is perfect for any occasion, offering fresh flavors and crunchy textures. It’s versatile too—customize it with your favorite nuts or veggies! Try making this delightful salad today; it’s sure to impress at your next gathering.

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