Introduction
If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful salad that combines the richness of texture with vibrant colors, this broccoli salad is a must-try. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a delightful addition to your family dinner, this dish features crunchy broccoli, chewy cranberries, and crispy bacon, all brought together with a creamy dressing. It’s a delicious way to enjoy your daily greens while satisfying all your taste buds!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 6 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
– 3 tablespoons white sugar
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 (12-ounce) bag broccoli slaw mix
– ½ cup sunflower seeds
– ½ cup dried cranberries
– ½ cup chopped red onion (optional)
– 1 cup chopped cooked bacon
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 8-10 people
To prepare the salad, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Combine the fresh broccoli, slaw mix, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and bacon in a large bowl, then pour the dressing over everything and toss well. Chill until ready to serve for a refreshing side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your broccoli salad!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, broccoli slaw mix, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, red onion (if using), and chopped bacon.
Mix the Salad
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until all ingredients are well coated.
Chill the Salad
Chill the salad until ready to serve.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Customization Options
Feel free to add other ingredients such as nuts, cheese, or additional vegetables to suit your taste.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is an essential technique for blending dressing ingredients like mayonnaise, vinegar, and spices until smooth and creamy.
Combining
Combining involves mixing various components in a large bowl, ensuring even distribution of flavors and textures, as seen when combining broccoli florets, slaw mix, and other ingredients.
Tossing
Tossing is a gentle mixing method used to coat the salad ingredients with the dressing evenly, ensuring each piece is flavorful without bruising the vegetables.
Chilling
Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to refresh before serving, enhancing the overall taste and enjoyment.
FAQ
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli is not only suitable but recommended for better texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise could be used as alternatives for mayonnaise in the dressing.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even celery for added crunch and flavor.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This delicious broccoli salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, combining fresh broccoli with a creamy dressing and a hint of sweetness from the cranberries and sugar. It’s a nutritious dish that can serve as a side for many occasions or even as a light meal on its own. The addition of bacon and sunflower seeds adds a delightful crunch, making this salad a crowd-pleaser.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chopped Apple and Walnut Salad
Combine chopped apples, walnuts, and spinach with a similar creamy dressing for a refreshing twist.
Classic Coleslaw
Substitute the broccoli with shredded cabbage and carrots, adding a bit of celery for crunch, while keeping the same dressing ingredients.
Quinoa and Vegetable Salad
Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, using the same dressing to create a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spinach and Bacon Salad
Use fresh spinach instead of broccoli, toss it with crumbled bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and the creamy dressing for a tasty, protein-packed salad.
California Kale Salad
Replace the broccoli with kale, add sliced avocado, and use a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh and vibrant alternative.
Roasted Vegetable Salad
Include a mix of roasted seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with the broccoli and dressing for a warm and hearty salad.
Fruit and Nut Salad
Mix in seasonal fruits such as strawberries and blueberries along with nuts like pecans or almonds for added sweetness and crunch.
