Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad
This Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad is a colorful, crunchy delight that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. It's an excellent dish for any season, but it shines especially bright in summer or fall gatherings. A refreshing twist on a classic, this salad is both healthful and satisfying.
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Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad
The main star here is broccoli florets, bringing a crunchy texture and plenty of nutrients. Dried cranberries add a sweet, chewy contrast that complements the broccoli's earthiness. Sliced almonds offer a lovely crunch and a mild nuttiness that ties everything together. Chopped red onion contributes a sharp, savory note, while shredded carrots provide a touch of sweetness and color. For the dressing, Greek yogurt and mayonnaise create a creamy base, apple cider vinegar adds a zesty tang, and honey lends natural sweetness.
Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad Tips & Tricks
- If your broccoli stems are thick, slice them thinly to ensure even texture.
- Toasting the almonds briefly in a dry pan enhances their flavor and crunch.
- For a creamier dressing, use full-fat Greek yogurt.
- Let the salad sit overnight in the fridge for even better flavor integration.
Serving Ideas for Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or salmon for a hearty meal. It's also a great side dish at potlucks and barbecues. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside quinoa or farro for added protein and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Fresh broccoli is recommended for its crisp texture, but you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
- How long does this salad last in the fridge?
- It keeps well for about 3-4 days in an airtight container, making it great for meal prep.
- Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
- Yes, you can use additional Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative if you prefer.
Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad Recipe Walkthrough
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Use a large mixing bowl to combine your broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and shredded carrots. Toss them gently to ensure everything is well distributed.
In a separate small bowl, you'll want to make the dressing. Whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything together until the broccoli and other ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite balanced and flavorful.
Why This Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad Works
- Quick to prepare — no cooking required!
- A delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
- Perfect for meal prep or as a make-ahead dish.
- Rich in fiber and nutrients, thanks to fresh broccoli.
- Easy to customize to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and shredded carrots.
- 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
- 4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.