Chilled Broccoli Medley

πŸ•’ Prep: 30 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
Be the First to Review!

This Chilled Broccoli Medley is a refreshing take on your usual veggie side dish. It's perfect for warm days and adds a burst of crunch and sweetness to any meal. It's an easy make-ahead salad that will shine on your table.

Ingredients for Chilled Broccoli Medley

Broccoli florets are the star of the show, offering a crisp, fresh base. Shredded carrots add color and a touch of sweetness. Red onion, finely chopped, gives a mild sharpness that balances the other flavors. The raisins bring a chewy texture and natural sweetness, while sunflower seeds add crunch and a nutty flavor. The mayonnaise makes the dressing creamy, while apple cider vinegar adds tang. A bit of sugar enhances the overall sweetness, and salt and black pepper round everything out with basic seasoning.

Tips & Tricks

  • Blanch the broccoli for a minute if you prefer a softer texture.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
  • Try adding a splash of lemon juice for extra zest.
  • If you’re not a fan of raisins, dried cranberries can be a great substitute.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, offering a refreshing contrast to richer main dishes. It also works well as part of a picnic spread or a potluck. For a bit of extra flair, serve in individual cups or bowls for easy, elegant presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. The flavors only get better as it sits.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best within 2-3 days, but it can last up to 4 days when stored properly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers would be great additions.

Chilled Broccoli Medley Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering a large bowl to combine your salad ingredients. Toss in the broccoli florets, shredded carrots, red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Give it all a good mix with your hands or a large spoon to evenly distribute everything. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour this dressing over your veggie mix. Toss everything together until each piece is well-coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together beautifully. When you're ready to serve, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare, with minimal cooking involved.
  • Perfect for meal prep β€” flavors improve as it sits.
  • A delightful mix of textures: crunchy, chewy, and creamy.
  • Can be easily customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded carrots, red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to ensure all ingredients are well-coated.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
5. Stir the salad again before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!