Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the goodness of broccoli with a blend of rich flavors, the Best Broccoli Salad from Love and Lemons is an excellent choice. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, thanks to its fresh ingredients and the addition of smoky tamari almonds. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound broccoli crowns
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (such as Sir Kensington’s or vegan mayo)
– 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– ¼ teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
– ⅓ cup diced red onions
– ⅓ cup dried cranberries
For the Smoky Tamari Almonds:
– ½ cup almonds
– ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
– 1 tablespoon tamari
– ½ teaspoon maple syrup
– ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, more to taste
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-14 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This Best Broccoli Salad is not just easy to prepare but also versatile. You can enjoy it right away or let it chill in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor. When preparing in advance, remember to store the salad and the nuts separately to keep the crispy texture intact. Get ready to savor a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will elevate any meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
Chop the broccoli florets into ½-inch pieces. Peel any woody parts from the stems and dice them into ¼-inch pieces.
3. Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and sea salt until smooth.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients
Add the chopped broccoli, diced red onions, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until all ingredients are well coated.
5. Prepare the Smoky Tamari Almonds
On the prepared baking sheet, combine the almonds and pepitas. Drizzle with tamari, maple syrup, and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Toss to evenly coat and spread them out in a single layer.
6. Bake the Nuts
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the nuts are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes; they will become crispier as they cool.
7. Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled smoky tamari almonds and pepitas to the salad, reserving a few for garnish. Toss everything together, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish, sprinkle the reserved nuts and seeds on top, and serve.
Notes
Storage Recommendation
This salad can be enjoyed immediately, but it’s even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preparing in Advance
If making ahead, store the salad and nuts separately and combine just before serving to maintain the crunch.
Cook techniques
Chopping Broccoli
To chop broccoli, start by removing the florets from the main stem, then cut them into bite-sized pieces, approximately ½ inch. Peel any tough outer layer from the stems and dice the stems into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Whisking Dressings
When making salad dressings, combine all liquid ingredients in a bowl. Use a whisk to blend them together until smooth and emulsified, ensuring that the mayonnaise integrates well with the other ingredients.
Tossing Salad Ingredients
Add salad components to a mixing bowl and use a gentle folding motion to combine, ensuring that the dressing coats each ingredient evenly without bruising delicate items.
Baking Nuts
When baking nuts, spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Check frequently to prevent burning, as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to overdone quickly.
Cooling Nuts
After baking nuts, let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will become crispier, enhancing their texture when added to salads.
Assembling Salad
To assemble, combine all salad components in a large bowl, adding any crunchy elements like nuts last to maintain their texture. Adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the salad.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.
How long can I store the salad?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is advisable to keep the nuts separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Yes! Feel free to include ingredients like shredded carrots, chopped apples, or sunflower seeds for additional flavor and texture.
What is tamari, and can I substitute it?
Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce. If you don’t have tamari, you can substitute it with regular soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
This Best Broccoli Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, and smoky tamari almonds creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Perfect as a side dish or a light main, this salad can be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Chilling it in the refrigerator enhances the flavors, making it an ideal make-ahead option.
Variations with Different Nuts
Try substituting the almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. Roasted cashews could also add a pleasant creaminess to the salad.
Add Fresh Fruits
Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or even orange segments for an added burst of sweetness and freshness.
Cheese Options
Add crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar for a creamy, savory element that complements the crunchy vegetables.
Protein Boost
For a heartier salad, include grilled chicken, chickpeas, or edamame. These additions will round out the meal and increase the protein content.
Alternative Vegetables
Experiment with adding other vegetables such as cauliflower, snap peas, or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
Dressings Variations
Try different dressings such as a miso-based dressing or a yogurt-based dressing to change up the flavor profile while keeping it creamy and delicious.
