Easy Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile and delicious side dish that combines the freshness of broccoli with a variety of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick and healthy meal prep option. The recipe can be tailored to suit different tastes by adjusting the ingredients and dressing. In this post, we’ll explore a classic broccoli salad recipe and provide some variations to inspire your culinary creativity.

Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• Broccoli: 5 cups of broccoli florets (from about 1 large head)
• Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled
• Red Onion: ⅓ cup, diced
• Cranberries: ½ cup, dried unsweetened
• Sunflower Seeds: ½ cup
• Goat Cheese: ¼ cup, crumbled
• Dressing:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon slices on a parchment-lined baking tray and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, or until crispy. Let it cool.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and goat cheese.
3. Add the Bacon: Once the bacon is cool, crumble it over the salad.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and yogurt.
5. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

Variations and Pro Tips

Honey Mustard Version

For a lighter and healthier option, you can replace the mayonnaise-based dressing with a honey-mustard vinaigrette. This version uses olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey, which gives the salad a tangy and sweet flavor profile3.

Smoky Almonds and Pepitas

Adding smoky almonds and pepitas can enhance the texture and flavor of the salad. Simply toss almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika, then bake until golden brown2.

Cheesy Delight

If you prefer a cheesier salad, you can use sharp cheddar cheese instead of goat cheese. This adds a richer flavor and pairs well with the sweetness of cranberries47.

Pro Tips:

• Marinate: Letting the salad marinate for at least 20 minutes can help the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize: Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon or cheese based on your dietary preferences.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds instead of almonds for a nut-free version3.

Conclusion

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or taste preference. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy exploring the world of broccoli salads and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!