“Did you hear? Meal-prep salads don’t have to be boring anymore!” That was the realization that hit me when I perfected this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette. Bursting with vibrant colors and textures, this salad transforms humble broccoli into a delicious and satisfying dish that’ll make lunch something to look forward to. Packed with fresh broccoli, tangy purple cabbage, and a sprinkling of crispy bacon, it’s a meal-prep dream that keeps well throughout the week. Plus, whipping it up takes no time at all! You can enjoy a wholesome, gluten-free lunch without sacrificing flavor or excitement. Ready to step up your salad game? You’re going to want to give this one a try!
Why is this salad a game-changer?
Vibrant Flavors: This Crunchy Broccoli Salad shines with a zesty Honey Dijon vinaigrette that elevates the freshness of the veggies.
Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for those busy weeks, it stores beautifully! Prepare ahead and enjoy a nutritious lunch ready to go.
Health-Packed Goodness: Loaded with vitamins from broccoli and purple cabbage, each bite is a crunch of wholesome ingredients.
Customizable Delight: Add your favorite proteins like chicken or tofu, and feel free to swap in seasonal veggies!
Crowd Pleaser: With its appealing colors and flavors, this salad is sure to impress at gatherings or casual lunches. Pair it effortlessly with a side of Sweet Potatoes Honey or even serve it alongside a delicious Baked Honey Mustard to complete the meal!
Crunchy Broccoli Salad Ingredients
• Get ready to crunch your way to flavor with this delightful salad!
For the Salad
- Broccoli Florets – A fresh, crunchy base loaded with nutrients. You can use either fresh or frozen.
- Purple Cabbage – Adds vibrant color and texture; substitute with green cabbage if needed.
- Cooked Bacon – Brings savory goodness and delightful crunch; opt for veggie bacon or skip it entirely for a plant-based salad.
- Red Onion – Provides a sharp kick; shallots make for a milder choice.
- Raw Cashews – Contributes a lovely nutty flavor and crunch; swap with almonds or sunflower seeds for nut allergies.
- Parmigiano Reggiano – Adds a creamy texture and umami burst; use grated cheddar or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
For the Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
- Olive Oil – The dressing’s rich base; avocado oil can work as a great alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Offers tanginess and depth, though yellow mustard will yield a different flavor profile.
- Honey – Naturally sweetens the dressing; maple syrup serves as a vegan substitute.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Infuses brightness and acidity; lemon juice works well in a pinch.
- Garlic – Elevates flavor complexity; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be a speedy alternative.
- Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; always adjust to suit your taste.
With these ingredients, you’ll have a scrumptious Crunchy Broccoli Salad that’s perfect for meal prep and is sure to keep your lunch exciting!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a large mason jar, combine ⅓ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing achieves a creamy consistency. Set aside for the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook four slices of bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally to achieve even crispness. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Allow it to cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. This will add savory goodness to your Crunchy Broccoli Salad.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets, 2 cups of finely sliced purple cabbage, ½ cup of diced red onion, and ½ cup of raw cashews. Make sure to mix these vibrant ingredients until they’re well incorporated. The fresh colors and textures of the veggies will make your Crunchy Broccoli Salad visually appealing.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the prepared Honey Dijon vinaigrette over the chopped vegetable mixture. Toss gently with tongs or salad servers, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing. Take a moment to enjoy the refreshing aroma as the dressing mingles with the vegetables, enhancing the flavor profile of your Crunchy Broccoli Salad.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Cheese
Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the salad mixture. Toss everything again to distribute the bacon and cheese throughout the salad. The delightful crunch from the bacon and the creaminess of the cheese will elevate your Crunchy Broccoli Salad, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Serve the Crunchy Broccoli Salad immediately for the best texture, or transfer it into airtight containers if prepping for later. The flavors will deepen as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious the next day. Enjoy it as a nutritious lunch or a vibrant side dish for your favorite meals.
How to Store and Freeze Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Fridge: Store your Crunchy Broccoli Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors become richer, making it a delicious meal-prep option!
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the salad without dressing for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the dressing fresh.
Reheating: Simply recommend enjoying it cold! If you prefer warm, you can lightly warm individual portions in the microwave, but crisp textures may soften.
Wrapping: If prepping ahead, store dressing separately in a small jar. Combine just before serving to maintain freshness and crunchiness!
Crunchy Broccoli Salad Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity and customize this Crunchy Broccoli Salad to fit your taste buds or dietary needs!
-
Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a heartier salad that packs a protein punch. This makes it even more satisfying as a standalone lunch!
-
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate colorful seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and flavor. Each bite transforms into a festival of taste!
-
Nut-Free Option: Swap cashews for seeds, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, if you’re avoiding nuts. This keeps the crunch while accommodating allergies!
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat into the dish. Spice lovers will appreciate the added zing!
-
Herb Garden: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fragrant twist that brightens up the flavor profile. Fresh ingredients offer a delightful surprise!
-
Cheese Variations: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of Parmigiano Reggiano for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its own personality to the salad!
-
Dressing Adventure: Experiment with different vinegars such as balsamic or wine vinegar for a richer taste in your Honey Dijon vinaigrette. Tailor the dressing to suit your preferences!
-
Fruity Delight: Add diced apples or cranberries for a sweet contrast to the crunchy vegetables. This unexpected addition elevates your salad with delightful flavors!
Pair this salad effortlessly with a side of Street Corn Salad or a vibrant Peach Feta Salad for a well-rounded meal!
Expert Tips for Crunchy Broccoli Salad
- Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh broccoli and cabbage for the best texture and flavor in your Crunchy Broccoli Salad. Avoid pre-packaged mixes that may contain preservatives.
- Crispy Bacon Secrets: Cook bacon until it’s perfectly crispy to prevent sogginess. Let it cool fully before chopping for the best crunch.
- Dressing Magic: For vibrancy, let the salad sit with the vinaigrette for a few hours. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, making your salad even tastier!
- Personal Touch: Feel free to customize by adding seasonal vegetables, proteins, or nuts based on your preference. Just keep the core ingredients for a balanced Crunchy Broccoli Salad.
- Storing Tips: Use airtight containers for storage, ensuring your salad remains fresh for up to 4 days without losing texture. Always add dressing just before serving.
What to Serve with Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
Looking to create a delightful meal that perfectly complements this vibrant salad? Here are some delicious ideas!
- Grilled Chicken: This savory protein pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing, enhancing the overall flavor while keeping the meal balanced.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty and fluffy side that adds a hearty component, pairing wonderfully with the fresh crunch of the salad. Serve warm for a cozy touch.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the tanginess of the Honey Dijon vinaigrette, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: With a crispy crust and buttery garlic flavor, this comforting side is perfect for savoring every bite of salad.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, both bring a light and zesty balance to the meal while quenching your thirst.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm or chilled dessert that brings sweetness to the table, contrasting beautifully with the salad’s savory profile.
- Baked Fish: Consider lemon-herb trout or salmon; their flaky texture and light flavors make a superb pair with the salad’s vibrant ingredients.
- Stuffed Peppers: For a more filling option, these can be filled with grains or meat, rounding out the meal with wholesome ingredients and textures.
- Hummus and Pita Chips: A light and healthy appetizer keeps the meal inviting and delicious, perfect for snacking before digging into the salad.
Make Ahead Options
These Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can chop the broccoli florets and purple cabbage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp. The Honey Dijon vinaigrette can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just give it a good shake before using to recombine. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped veggies with the vinaigrette, add the cooked bacon and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and mix until everything is well coated. This approach not only saves you time during your busy weekdays but also ensures a delicious, satisfying salad waiting for you!
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right broccoli for the salad?
Absolutely, selecting the right broccoli is key! Look for firm, bright green florets without any dark spots or yellowing. The stalks should be crisp and unblemished. Fresh broccoli will not only taste better, but it will also maintain a nice crunch in your Crunchy Broccoli Salad.
How long can I store the salad in the fridge?
You can store your Crunchy Broccoli Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep the texture intact, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving. If prepared correctly, the salad can still taste vibrant and fresh even after a few days in the fridge.
Can I freeze the Crunchy Broccoli Salad?
While freezing isn’t ideal for this salad due to the fresh ingredients, you can freeze the salad without the dressing for up to 1 month. To do this, prepare the salad, pack it tightly into an airtight container, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and add the dressing fresh for the best flavor and texture.
What should I do if I find my salad a bit too soggy?
Very common! If your salad turns out too soggy, there are a couple of fixes: First, you can drain excess moisture by placing the salad in a colander for a few minutes. To rescue the crunch, you can also add some additional fresh ingredients like extra broccoli, nuts, or seeds right before serving.
Can I make the salad vegan?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe to a vegan diet, simply replace the honey in the vinaigrette with maple syrup. For the salad, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon bits. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, ensuring your Crunchy Broccoli Salad is just as delightful!
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mason jar, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing achieves a creamy consistency. Set aside for the flavors to meld.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Turn occasionally for even crispness. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Allow to cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli florets, finely sliced purple cabbage, diced red onion, and raw cashews. Mix until well incorporated.
- Pour the prepared Honey Dijon vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently with tongs or salad servers to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the salad mixture. Toss again to distribute throughout the salad.
- Serve immediately for best texture, or transfer to airtight containers for later. Flavors will deepen as it sits in the refrigerator.
Leave a Reply