Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad | YumAndJoy

Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad

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

  1. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, shred the cabbage, and thinly slice the red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  1. 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

  1. Add the crumbled bacon and chopped cashews to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the honey Dijon vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve

  1. 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!

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Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad

Refreshing Crunchy Broccoli Salad


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  • Author: asma
  • 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

Units Scale

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

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets and shredded red cabbage.
  2. Cook the Bacon:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
  3. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
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