Easy Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fresh, crisp broccoli with a medley of complementary ingredients, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. This salad is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition, making it an excellent choice for a healthy side dish or a light lunch.
The star of the salad is the broccoli, which is blanched to retain its bright green color and crunchy texture while softening it just enough to enhance its flavor. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese brings a creamy, savory element that pairs beautifully with the broccoli, adding a rich, cheesy taste to each bite.
Red onion adds a subtle sharpness, while sunflower seeds contribute a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Dried cranberries or raisins introduce a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory components and adding a pleasant chewiness. For those who enjoy a touch of indulgence, crumbled bacon can be included, offering a smoky and crispy contrast to the fresh ingredients.
The salad is dressed with a creamy blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. This dressing provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients and ties the salad together. The result is a well-rounded dish with a rich, satisfying taste that remains light and refreshing.
Easy Broccoli Salad is not only quick to assemble but also versatile enough to be adapted to personal preferences. It can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, which makes it an ideal choice for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and appealing textures make it a visually inviting addition to any meal, and its balanced flavors ensure that it will be a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. To ensure they are tender yet crisp, blanch the broccoli by boiling it for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transferring it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
- Mix the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries (or raisins), and crumbled bacon (if using). Toss gently to combine.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Serve:
- Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tips:
- Crunch Factor: For extra crunch, you can add additional sunflower seeds or substitute them with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to develop even more.
Easy Broccoli Salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Its combination of crisp broccoli, sweet and tangy dressing, and crunchy toppings makes it a satisfying and healthy choice. Whether served at a family gathering, picnic, or as a quick weeknight side, this salad is sure to be a hit.
