Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing

This Crunchy Broccoli Salad is a light, refreshing dish bursting with textures and flavors. Featuring finely chopped broccoli, purple cabbage, bacon, and cashews, it’s topped with a tangy Honey Dijon Vinaigrette that ties it all together. Packed with nutrients and a hint of indulgence from Parmigiano Reggiano, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Loaded with crunchy, fresh vegetables and savory flavors.
• The Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
• Versatile—serve it as a side dish, a light meal, or add chicken for extra protein.
• Easy to make with minimal prep time.
• Naturally gluten-free with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad

• 4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup purple cabbage, finely chopped
• 6 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup raw cashews, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, freshly grated

Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, mashed
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette

• Add the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, mashed garlic, salt, and black pepper to a jar.
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

2. Assemble the Salad

• Finely chop the broccoli, purple cabbage, bacon, red onion, and cashews.
• Transfer all the chopped ingredients to a large mixing bowl.

3. Toss with Dressing

• Pour the Honey Dijon Vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the salad. Toss gently once more.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 as a side dish
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Nuts and Seeds: Substitute cashews with almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the Parmigiano Reggiano or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a kick.
• Vegan Version: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving to maintain crunchiness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but the homemade Honey Dijon Vinaigrette adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the salad perfectly.

How do I prevent the broccoli from being too hard?

If you prefer softer broccoli, blanch it for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then shock it in an ice bath before chopping.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup and omit the Parmigiano Reggiano or use a vegan cheese alternative.

What can I pair with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple soup for a complete meal.

Can I use pre-cut vegetables?

Absolutely! Pre-cut broccoli and cabbage can save time and still taste great.

How do I keep the cashews crunchy?

Add the cashews just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, feta or shredded sharp cheddar are excellent substitutes for Parmigiano Reggiano.

Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?

Yes, prepare the salad ingredients and vinaigrette ahead of time but keep them separate. Combine just before eating.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Turkey bacon or crispy pancetta are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, use smoked tempeh or omit entirely.

How do I make the dressing creamier?

Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the vinaigrette for a creamier texture.

Conclusion

This Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, nutrient-packed meal. Whether served as a side or main course, this salad is sure to impress!

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