This Easy Crunchy Broccoli Salad is a refreshing dish packed with vibrant green broccoli and crunchy bites! Toss in some nuts and raisins for a twist that brings smiles to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for this salad. It stays crunchy, which is crucial for texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen chopped broccoli could work—just thaw and drain well before using.
Red Onion: Diced red onion adds a nice bite. If you find it too strong, you can swap it out for green onions or even thinly sliced shallots for a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness to balance the dish. You can substitute them with raisins, chopped apples, or even dried cherries for a different flavor profile!
Sunflower Seeds: They provide a lovely crunch. If allergies are a concern, pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds would make great alternatives.
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives this salad a savory element. For a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas or omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
Cheese: Feta or cheddar adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, you could leave it out, or opt for a plant-based cheese.
How Do You Make Sure Broccoli Stays Crunchy?
To keep broccoli crisp, washing and drying it properly is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting the broccoli into florets, rinse them under cold water.
- Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove moisture, which helps maintain crunchiness.
- It also helps to chill the salad in the fridge for at least an hour before serving; this allows the flavors to mix and keeps the broccoli firm.
Taking these steps ensures your salad is not only tasty but texturally satisfying too! Enjoy your healthy, crunchy creation!
Easy Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads of broccoli)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (unsalted)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you should let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Overall, you’ll have a fresh, crunchy salad ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli heads thoroughly under cold water. Cut them into bite-sized florets and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. This will keep your broccoli crunchy!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cleaned broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, crumbled bacon, and the cheese if you’re using it. Mix everything together gently to evenly combine the ingredients.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing brings all the flavors together.
4. Combine and Toss:
Now, pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything well so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. It’s all about that delicious flavor!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This step is so important because it helps the flavors meld together and helps keep the broccoli nice and crisp.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a final toss to mix everything again. Your refreshing, crunchy broccoli salad is now ready to be enjoyed as a delightful side dish at any meal!
FAQ for Easy Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for its crunchiness, you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before using, as excess moisture can make the salad soggy.
How Long Will Leftover Salad Last in the Fridge?
Leftover broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, note that the broccoli may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, you can omit the bacon and cheese, or substitute them with crunchy chickpeas and vegan cheese. You can also use a vegan mayo for the dressing!
Is There a Good Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Dressing?
If you’re looking for a mayo alternative, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free yogurt for a healthier twist. Just mix it well with the apple cider vinegar and honey to get a creamy consistency.
