There’s just something about a fresh and crunchy broccoli salad that makes my heart sing! It’s vibrant, it’s healthy, and it’s oh-so-easy to whip up. Seriously, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick side dish to elevate your weeknight dinner, this broccoli salad has got you covered. Packed with delightful textures from the crisp broccoli florets and the sweet crunch of sunflower seeds and raisins, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Plus, you can customize it to your heart’s content! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Broccoli Salad
Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious broccoli salad! Here’s what you’ll want:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh and washed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (you can use pre-shredded or grate your own)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced (for that sweet bite)
- 1/2 cup raisins (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (for crunch and nuttiness)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (feel free to use light or regular)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to add a tangy kick)
- 1 tablespoon honey (adjust to your taste for sweetness)
That’s it! You’ll be amazed at how these simple ingredients come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying. Make sure to check your pantry for these staples before you start!
How to Prepare Broccoli Salad
Alright, let’s get this delicious broccoli salad ready! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll have it prepped in no time. Here’s how to do it:
- First, grab a large bowl and toss in the 4 cups of broccoli florets, 1 cup of shredded carrots, 1/2 cup of diced red onion, 1/2 cup of raisins, and 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds. Just combine them gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Next, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir until it’s smooth and well combined. You might want to taste it and see if you’d like to add a bit more honey for sweetness!
- Now, pour that lovely dressing over the salad ingredients in the big bowl. Toss everything together until all the veggies are coated in that creamy goodness. Don’t be shy—get in there and make sure every piece is covered!
- Once it’s all mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to become refreshingly cool.
And there you have it! Now you can sit back and let the fridge work its magic. Trust me, this salad is even better when it’s had a little time to chill out!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy and vibrant, packed with nutrients from fresh veggies.
- Deliciously crunchy texture with a sweet and tangy dressing.
- Great for meal prep—tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or fruits for added flair.
Tips for Success with Broccoli Salad
To really nail this broccoli salad, here are a few of my top tips! First, make sure your broccoli is crisp and fresh; it makes all the difference in texture. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes—this helps the flavors meld and enhances the taste. If you like it sweeter, don’t hesitate to adjust the honey in the dressing. And remember, feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced apples or chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor!
Variations of Broccoli Salad
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this broccoli salad! Try adding crunchy almonds or walnuts for a nutty twist. You can throw in some diced apples or grapes for a burst of sweetness. Want to boost the flavor? A sprinkle of feta cheese or bacon bits can take it to the next level. And for a spicy kick, toss in some jalapeños or red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information for Broccoli Salad
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for this delightful broccoli salad per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
These values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredient choices!
FAQ About Broccoli Salad
I’m glad you asked! Here are some common questions I get about this broccoli salad:
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This broccoli salad is perfect for making a day in advance, as the flavors only get better as they sit.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise? If you prefer a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version!
How long will leftovers last? You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch!
Is this broccoli salad healthy? You bet! It’s packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli and carrots, making it a fantastic, guilt-free side dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover broccoli salad, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle. As for reheating, this salad is best enjoyed cold, so I recommend serving it straight from the fridge for that crisp, refreshing crunch. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Salad
This broccoli salad makes a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with so many meals! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner. It also complements barbecued ribs or burgers wonderfully. And if you’re having a picnic, pack it with sandwiches for a refreshing touch!
Print
Broccoli Salad: 5 Reasons to Love This Crunchy Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and crunchy broccoli salad with a delicious dressing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, shredded carrots, red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- For a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise.
- This salad can be made a day ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: broccoli salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad
