Crunchy Broccoli & Cranberry Delight Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Welcome to a dish that brings together the crunchy goodness of fresh veggies and the tart sweetness of dried fruit. This Crunchy Broccoli & Cranberry Delight Salad is perfect for those looking for a refreshing twist on traditional salads. It’s a simple, make-ahead option that brings a pop of color and flavor to any table.

Ingredients for Crunchy Broccoli & Cranberry Delight Salad

Broccoli florets are the star, bringing a fresh, crunchy base. Dried cranberries add a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Chopped walnuts introduce a nutty, earthy element, offering more crunch. Red onion gives a sharp contrast, adding a bit of bite without overpowering the dish. Shredded cheddar cheese provides a creamy, salty richness that ties everything together. The mayonnaise-based dressing, with apple cider vinegar and honey, adds a tangy sweetness that complements the salad perfectly. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper enhances all these flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing for an extra zing.
  • For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Toast the walnuts for a deeper, nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad works wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. It also pairs nicely with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the dressing. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or farro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
Pecans or almonds would work beautifully as alternatives.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Use a vegan mayonnaise and skip the cheese, or try a plant-based cheese alternative.

Crunchy Broccoli & Cranberry Delight Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients so everything is within reach. Rinse the broccoli florets thoroughly, and if they’re a bit large, give them a quick chop to make sure they’re bite-sized.

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a gentle toss with your hands or a wooden spoon to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until you have a smooth, creamy dressing.

Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the dressing into the salad, making sure each bite is coated with the creamy mixture.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

When you’re ready, give it one last toss before serving. Serve chill and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The combination of textures—crunchy, chewy, and creamy—is incredibly satisfying.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, with only a handful of ingredients.
  • Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
  • Great make-ahead option for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, dried cranberries, walnuts, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy.

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