Broccoli Salad with Cranberries and Almonds is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and sweet and savory flavors. This salad is full of texture and is perfect for a side dish or a light meal. The combination of fresh broccoli, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and a creamy dressing makes this salad both flavorful and satisfying.
The base of the salad is made with fresh broccoli crowns, which are chopped into small pieces for easy eating. Both the florets and the stems are used, ensuring no part of the broccoli goes to waste. The stems are peeled and diced into smaller pieces to make them tender and enjoyable. Broccoli provides a crisp texture and a slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
The dressing is a creamy and tangy mixture of extra-virgin olive oil, mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, garlic, and sea salt. The apple cider vinegar gives it a bright and zesty taste, while the maple syrup or honey adds a touch of sweetness. The garlic and mustard provide a subtle sharpness, making the dressing rich and flavorful. Once mixed, the dressing is tossed with the broccoli, diced red onions, and dried cranberries, allowing the flavors to meld together.
The salad also includes a crunchy nut and seed topping made from almonds and pepitas. These are tossed with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika, then baked until golden brown. This step enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad. Once cooled, they are mixed into the salad, with a few reserved for garnish.
The final result is a vibrant and refreshing dish with a mix of textures and flavors. The creaminess of the dressing, the tartness of the cranberries, the crunch of the nuts, and the slight smokiness from the paprika come together beautifully. This salad is perfect as a healthy side dish or a light lunch, and it can be made ahead for meal prep.
Simple yet delicious recipe. Thank you for sharing this