This crunchy broccoli salad is a fresh delight! With crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts, it’s a perfect side dish that’s both tasty and colorful.
Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking bites while I prepare it—those raisins give a nice pop! 😄 It’s so easy to throw together; just mix everything in a bowl and enjoy that crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for crunch and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works in a pinch but will be softer after thawing.
Red Grapes: The natural sweetness of red grapes adds a nice contrast. You can swap them for diced apples or pears for a different twist.
Red Onion: A little bite from red onion makes this salad pop! If you prefer less sharpness, use green onions or shallots instead.
Sunflower Seeds: They give great crunch. If you have a nut allergy, feel free to use pumpkin seeds instead for that same satisfying crunch!
Mayonnaise: This provides creaminess. If you’re avoiding mayo, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free substitute to keep it creamy but lighter.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Broccoli?
Getting the broccoli just right is essential for this salad. Start by washing the broccoli under cold water, making sure to remove any dirt. Then, chop it into bite-size florets so every piece can absorb that tasty dressing.
- If you like a softer bite, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly cool it in ice water.
- Make sure to pat it dry before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid a soggy salad.
With these tips and the crunchy nature of this salad, you’ll be sure to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy!
Easy Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped walnuts)
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced mushrooms (about 1/2 cup), for extra texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at just about 45 minutes to enjoy a tasty, refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets so they’re easy to eat. If you’re adding mushrooms, rinse them and slice them thinly to mix in later.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the freshly cut broccoli florets, halved red grapes, chopped red onion, raisins, and either sunflower seeds or walnuts for that delightful crunch. If you opted for mushrooms, toss them in as well!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well-combined.
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour that delicious dressing over your broccoli mixture. Gently use a spatula or spoon to toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, give it another gentle toss and enjoy your cold, crunchy salad!
This salad combines the crispness of fresh broccoli, the sweetness of grapes and raisins, and the delightful crunch from nuts and seeds—it’s a perfect easy and refreshing dish that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best crunch, you can use frozen broccoli. Make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before using. Frozen broccoli will be softer, so the texture will differ from using fresh.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but it’s best to enjoy it within the first couple of days for optimal freshness and crunch.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator. It’s a great option for meal prep or potlucks!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. Both will maintain the creaminess while offering a different flavor profile.
