best broccoli salad recipe

Craving a fresh, vibrant side dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Dive into the world of broccoli salad—a crunchy, tangy, and satisfying classic that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.

This best broccoli salad recipe features crisp broccoli, sweet cranberries, and smoky tamari almonds, all tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing.

Ingredients List

Creating the ultimate broccoli salad requires a balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need for each component of this crave-worthy dish:

Salad Ingredients

• 1 pound broccoli crowns
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
• 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

Smoky Tamari Almonds

• ½ cup almonds
• ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1 tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce)
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, more to taste

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing this broccoli salad a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients together.
2. Whisk: To blend the creamy dressing until smooth.
3. Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping broccoli, onions, and almonds.
4. Baking Sheet & Parchment Paper: To roast the smoky tamari almonds and pepitas.
5. Measuring Spoons & Cups: For precise ingredient portions.
6. Spatula or Large Spoon: For mixing and serving the salad.

With these tools and ingredients ready, you’re set to create a broccoli salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Salad Preparation

Preparing the broccoli salad is all about building layers of flavor and texture. Follow these steps to ensure every bite is crisp, creamy, and satisfying.

Prepping the Broccoli

Start by washing and thoroughly drying the broccoli crowns. Chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces—about ½-inch each—for maximum crunch and easy eating. Don’t toss those stems! Peel away any tough or woody parts, then dice the tender stems into ¼-inch pieces. This not only reduces waste but adds extra texture to your salad.

Making the Creamy Dressing

In the bottom of a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and sea salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the flavors are well combined.

Tossing the Salad

Add the chopped broccoli, diced red onions, and dried cranberries directly into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated and the cranberries and onions are well distributed. This step allows the broccoli to soak up the tangy, creamy dressing, making every bite flavorful.

Making the Smoky Tamari Almonds

No broccoli salad is complete without a crunchy, savory topping. These smoky tamari almonds and pepitas add a burst of flavor and texture that takes this salad to the next level.

Roasting the Almonds and Pepitas

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Nuts and Seeds:
   In a small bowl, combine the almonds and pepitas. Drizzle with tamari, maple syrup, and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated in the smoky, salty, and slightly sweet mixture.
3. Bake to Perfection:
   Spread the almonds and pepitas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. Cool and Crisp:
   Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 5 minutes. The nuts and seeds will continue to crisp up as they cool, giving you that irresistible crunch.

Bringing It All Together

Once the smoky tamari almonds and pepitas are cool, toss most of them into the salad, reserving a handful for garnish. Give the salad a final toss to distribute the crunch throughout. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

Serving and Decoration

When it comes to serving your broccoli salad, a little attention to detail can make it truly shine. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter, and sprinkle the reserved smoky tamari almonds and pepitas over the top for a beautiful, crunchy finish. For extra color and freshness, you can add a few more dried cranberries or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Suggested Toppings and Variations

• Extra Creaminess: Add a handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy twist.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped dill, parsley, or chives add a burst of green and fresh flavor.
• Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest can brighten up the salad even more.

This salad is perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch on its own. It’s best served fresh, but the flavors only get better as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option.

Storage Instructions

Broccoli salad stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Keep Broccoli Salad Fresh

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The broccoli will stay crisp, and the flavors will continue to meld. If you want to keep the almonds and pepitas extra crunchy, store them separately and add just before serving.

Can You Freeze Broccoli Salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables can become watery and lose their texture after thawing.

Conclusion

Mastering this broccoli salad recipe means you’ll always have a crowd-pleasing, healthy dish up your sleeve. With its creamy dressing, sweet cranberries, and smoky, crunchy almonds, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own with different nuts, seeds, or add-ins—broccoli salad is endlessly customizable. So grab your ingredients, get chopping, and enjoy the best broccoli salad you’ve ever tasted!