Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something fresh, healthy, and surprisingly delicious? Then look no further! This simple broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is the perfect answer. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with vibrant flavors that will elevate any meal. Whether you're looking for easy recipes for a weeknight dinner or healthy meals for a potluck, this recipe is a winner.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Wash and cut the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Thinly slice the red onion. For best results, aim for relatively uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
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Blanch the Vegetables (Optional but Recommended): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain their vibrant green color. This step is optional, but it helps to improve the texture of the vegetables and make them more palatable for those who find raw broccoli and cauliflower a little tough.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli and cauliflower, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and parsley.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to blend and intensify. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Broccoli Cauliflower Salad:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked broccoli and cauliflower will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste: If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice or vinegar. If you like it sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup.
- Add protein: To make this a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. This makes it a great complete meal option.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients, such as chopped apples, raisins, walnuts, or pecans.
Variations:
- Spicy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This simple broccoli cauliflower salad is a fantastic example of a delicious and healthy side dish, easily adaptable to your preferences. It’s a perfect addition to any barbecue, potluck, or weeknight dinner. Enjoy this easy and healthy recipe!