The “Best Broccoli Salad Ever” is a bold claim, but this recipe lives up to its name with its delicious blend of textures and flavors. It combines fresh broccoli with the sweetness of dried fruit, the richness of cheese, and a tangy dressing, all topped with crunchy nuts or seeds. This salad is a hit at gatherings and perfect for adding a fresh yet hearty element to any meal.
Ingredients:
Salad Components:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds (toasted, if you prefer)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled (optional for a vegetarian version, or use a vegetarian bacon substitute)
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust according to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their crunch. Drain well.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched and cooled broccoli florets, chopped red onion, shredded cheese, dried cranberries or raisins, and half of the sunflower seeds or almonds (reserve the rest for garnishing). If using, add the crumbled bacon.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are well coated. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling time helps the broccoli to absorb the dressing, enhancing the overall taste.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and sprinkle with the remaining sunflower seeds or almonds for added texture and crunch.
Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped apples for extra sweetness or grated carrots for more color.
- For a Healthier Dressing: Substitute Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise to reduce calories and add protein.
- Make-Ahead: This salad tastes even better when made ahead of time, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
Enjoy your “Best Broccoli Salad Ever,” a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress with its delightful combination of textures and tastes!