This light and flavorful broccoli salad is the perfect combination of textures and tastes. Fresh broccoli, shredded cabbage, crispy bacon, and crunchy cashews come together with a tangy honey Dijon vinaigrette for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad is a guaranteed hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy and Fresh: A satisfying mix of veggies, nuts, and bacon for the ultimate texture.
- Light and Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients and a light homemade dressing.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cashews, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, shred the cabbage, and thinly slice the red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the crumbled bacon and chopped cashews to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
- Pour the honey Dijon vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld together.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Additions: Add shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for extra flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based bacon and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Fruit Twist: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
- Nut Swap: Replace cashews with almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add cashews just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the salad ingredients and dressing separately, then toss together just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-packaged broccoli slaw?
Yes, broccoli slaw is a great time-saving alternative and works well in this recipe.
2. How do I keep the broccoli crunchy?
Avoid over-chopping and serve the salad fresh. If making ahead, store the dressing separately.
3. Can I omit the bacon?
Yes, the salad is still delicious without bacon. You can substitute it with roasted chickpeas or a vegan bacon alternative.
4. Is there a creamy dressing option?
Yes, replace the vinaigrette with a creamy dressing made of Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey.
5. Can I use another type of vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used as substitutes for apple cider vinegar.
6. How can I reduce the sweetness of the dressing?
Simply decrease the amount of honey or omit it entirely for a tangier flavor.
7. What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or as a side to sandwiches or burgers.
8. Can I make this salad nut-free?
Yes, omit the cashews or replace them with roasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
9. How can I make it more filling?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.
10. Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, serve it immediately after tossing with warm bacon for a slightly warm salad.
Conclusion
This Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. With its crisp veggies, savory bacon, and tangy honey Dijon vinaigrette, it’s a healthy and versatile dish that’s easy to make and always a hit. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a potluck, this salad is sure to please!
Print
Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad is a perfect combination of fresh broccoli, cabbage, crispy bacon, and crunchy cashews. Tossed in a homemade honey Dijon vinaigrette, it’s a healthy and flavorful dish that’s ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a light side!
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
Protein:
- 4 strips crispy bacon (crumbled)
Nuts & Seeds:
- 1/2 cup cashews (roughly chopped)
Condiments:
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
Oils & Vinegars:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets and shredded red cabbage.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and cabbage mixture. Toss well to coat.
- Add the crumbled bacon and chopped cashews. Toss again to combine.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add sunflower seeds or sliced almonds.
- Replace bacon with diced grilled chicken for a protein-packed option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American-inspired