Tired of heavy, mayonnaise-laden broccoli salads? Craving a lighter, healthier, and equally delicious alternative? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe delivers all the satisfying crunch and vibrant flavor of a classic broccoli salad, but without the creamy, heavy dressing. It's a perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a quick and healthy weeknight meal. Get ready to experience a broccoli salad that's both refreshing and incredibly flavorful!
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and pat them dry. Blanching the broccoli for 1-2 minutes in boiling water before adding it to the salad helps to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Immediately plunge the blanched broccoli into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be emulsified – a smooth and creamy consistency without separation.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, feta cheese (if using), and red onion.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. The flavors will meld beautifully if allowed to sit for a while in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad:
- Blanching is Key: Blanching the broccoli ensures it stays crisp and vibrant, preventing it from becoming soggy. Don’t skip this step!
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy elements to your salad, such as chopped walnuts, pecans, or roasted chickpeas.
- Add Some Sweetness: A touch of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness of the cranberries and balance the acidity of the dressing.
- Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier and more protein-packed salad.
Variations:
- Bacon Broccoli Salad: Add crispy cooked bacon pieces for a smoky and savory twist.
- Creamy Avocado Dressing: Instead of the vinaigrette, try a creamy avocado dressing for a richer, healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
- Spicy Broccoli Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and ingredients)
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This delicious and healthy broccoli salad is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a versatile side dish that can be customized to your liking, making it a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite, offering a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional broccoli salads. Enjoy!