Indulging in a refreshing Broccoli Salad is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and delicious dish. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also bright and vibrant, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a side dish at home. With its combination of fresh ingredients, Broccoli Salad offers a delightful crunch and is incredibly customizable to fit various tastes.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 43 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 180mg
Why Make Broccoli Salad
Broccoli Salad is a fantastic choice for those seeking a healthy yet satisfying option. Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a superfood that benefits your immune system and overall health. This salad not only nourishes your body but also excites your taste buds with the combination of crunchy vegetables and savory feta. Plus, it’s highly versatile—add nuts, seeds, or your favorite protein to make it your own!
How to Make Broccoli Salad Step by Step
Ingredients
- Broccoli
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Feta cheese
Directions
- Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into small florets.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad
Broccoli Salad is incredibly adaptable. Serve it alongside grilled chicken for a balanced meal or pair it with quinoa for added texture. It also makes a delightful companion to hearty soups or sandwiches. You can even enjoy this salad on its own as a light lunch.
How to Store Broccoli Salad
To store Broccoli Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently if adding protein, as it’s best enjoyed cold. Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the fresh ingredients.
Expert Tips for Cooking Broccoli Salad
- Use fresh, bright-green broccoli for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes; this enhances the flavors.
- Customize your salad by adding roasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Add some cooked bacon or chickpeas for added protein.
Delicious Variations of Broccoli Salad
- Spicy Broccoli Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Herbed Broccoli Salad: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- Citrus Broccoli Salad: Incorporate orange segments or replace the lemon with lime for a zesty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Broccoli Salad
Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s great to prepare it a day in advance to enhance the flavors.
Is Broccoli Salad vegan? To make it vegan, swap the feta cheese for tofu or an avocado.
How long can Broccoli Salad be stored? It’s best consumed within three days when stored in the fridge.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on trying this vibrant and tasty Broccoli Salad. With its fresh ingredients and delightful dressing, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at your table. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the crunch, and let this salad be a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head Broccoli Fresh and bright-green
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Extra virgin is recommended
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper Freshly ground for better flavor
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
- 1/2 medium Red onion Diced
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese Crumbled
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into small florets.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
Dressing
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Chill
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
