Introduction
If you’re looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this broccoli salad with cheddar cheese, cashews, and cranberries is the perfect choice. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it an ideal side dish for any gathering or a tasty addition to your lunch. The creamy dressing adds a delicious finish to the crunchy ingredients, ensuring that each bite is a burst of goodness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
3 ounces cheddar cheese, diced
⅓ cup cashews
¼ cup diced red onion
¼ cup dried cranberries
For the dressing:
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Enjoy this delicious salad as a side dish at your next meal or picnic, and watch as it disappears from the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, diced cheddar cheese, cashews, diced red onion, and dried cranberries.
Mix the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Refrigerate the Salad
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Broccoli Florets
Ensure that the broccoli florets are coarsely chopped for better texture and mouthfeel in the salad.
Cheddar Cheese
Diced cheddar cheese can be substituted with other varieties if desired, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
Cashews
If there are nut allergies, cashews can be omitted or replaced with toasted seeds, like sunflower seeds.
Dried Cranberries
For a different flavor profile, consider swapping dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a side dish or as a light main meal, especially on warmer days.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is a technique used to combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring that the dressing is well mixed and free of lumps. In this recipe, whisk the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, and apple cider vinegar thoroughly until the mixture is smooth.
Chopping
Coarsely chopping is cutting the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. This technique helps maintain texture and allows for even distribution in the salad.
Dicing
Dicing involves cutting ingredients, such as cheddar cheese and red onion, into small, uniform pieces. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.
Tossing
Tossing is a gentle mixing technique used to combine ingredients without breaking them. In this recipe, gently toss the broccoli mixture with the dressing to ensure everything is evenly coated without crushing the ingredients.
Refrigerating
Refrigerating allows the flavors of the salad to meld together. By letting it rest in the fridge for at least one hour, the overall taste improves, making it more delicious when served.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until serving.
Are there any substitutes for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Yes, feel free to add other ingredients like diced apples, sunflower seeds, or carrots for additional flavor and texture.
How long can I store the salad in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the texture may change as it sits.
Conclusion
This delightful broccoli salad combines nutrient-rich vegetables with creamy dressing and delightful textures from cheese and nuts. The sweetness of dried cranberries adds a refreshing twist, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Add crispy bacon bits to the broccoli salad for a savory flavor boost that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
Broccoli and Apple Salad
Incorporate diced apples for a crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Spicy Broccoli Salad
Include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing to add a spicy kick to your broccoli salad.
Quinoa Broccoli Salad
Mix in cooked quinoa to make the salad heartier and to increase its protein content.
Broccoli Salad with Sunflower Seeds
Replace cashews with toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free option that still provides a nice crunch.
Greek Yogurt Dressing
Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the dressing for a healthier, tangy alternative.
