Broccoli Salad with Cranberries Easy Healthy Recipe Guide

Broccoli salad with cranberries has earned a permanent place in modern kitchens because it balances freshness comfort and bold flavor in one generous bowl.

Broccoli Salad with Cranberries

Crisp broccoli brings a clean green bite while sweet dried cranberries add a gentle pop that wakes up the palate. Creamy dressing pulls everything together without overpowering the vegetables. Every forkful feels familiar yet exciting which explains why this salad shows up at family gatherings holiday tables and weekly meal plans.

Ingredients Needed

Fresh ingredients build the foundation of a memorable broccoli salad with cranberries. Quality matters because each component plays a clear role in the final flavor. Broccoli should be firm and bright green. Cranberries should be plump and slightly glossy. Dressing ingredients should taste balanced before mixing.

The table below outlines common ingredients along with approximate calorie counts per standard serving amount. Values may vary depending on brand and portion size.

IngredientQuantityApproximate Calories
Fresh broccoli florets4 cups120
Dried cranberries1 cup370
Red onion chopped1 small45
Sunflower seeds1 half cup400
Sharp cheddar cheese1 cup455
Mayonnaise1 cup1440
Apple cider vinegar2 tablespoons6
Honey or sugar3 tablespoons180
SaltTo taste0
Black pepperTo taste0

These ingredients create a classic version that many people recognize. Adjustments can always be made based on dietary needs or taste preferences.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation begins with broccoli. Wash the heads thoroughly under cold water. Dry them completely to prevent watery dressing. Cut florets into small bite sized pieces. Smaller pieces absorb dressing better and create a more pleasant eating experience. Peel the stalks if using them and chop finely to avoid toughness.

Place the chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl. Add dried cranberries and chopped red onion. Sprinkle sunflower seeds and shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Do not mix yet. Keeping ingredients layered helps prevent crushing the broccoli early.

Prepare the dressing in a separate bowl. Add mayonnaise apple cider vinegar and honey. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Taste the dressing. Adjust sweetness or acidity based on preference. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances balance and depth.This recipe goes hand-in-hand with Broccoli Salad with Bacon for a perfect combo.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold gently. Turn the mixture slowly from the bottom upward. The goal involves coating every piece without breaking the broccoli or mashing the cheese.

Once mixed cover the bowl tightly. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling allows flavors to blend and cranberries to soften slightly. For best results chill for several hours or overnight.

Before serving stir the salad again. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a small splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to brighten flavors just before presenting.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Broccoli salad with cranberries welcomes creativity. Small changes can transform the dish while keeping its familiar appeal. Customization allows the recipe to fit many dietary styles and flavor profiles.

For a lighter version replace part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. The salad stays creamy while gaining extra protein. Flavor remains rich but less heavy.

For extra crunch add chopped almonds pecans or walnuts. Toasting the nuts briefly enhances aroma and depth. Seeds such as pumpkin or sesame also work well.

For a sweeter profile increase cranberries or add diced apple or pear. Fresh fruit adds juiciness that balances the creamy dressing beautifully.

For savory depth mix in cooked bacon pieces or smoked turkey bits. These additions introduce saltiness that contrasts nicely with sweet cranberries.

For dairy free needs skip cheese and use a plant based dressing. Many vegan mayonnaise options work well and keep texture intact.

For a tangier edge add a splash of lemon juice or extra vinegar. Acid cuts richness and keeps the salad refreshing even with heavier additions.

Herbs like parsley dill or chives add freshness and color. Finely chop them and sprinkle just before serving to preserve aroma.

Each adjustment keeps the heart of the recipe intact while tailoring it to individual tastes or occasions.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Nutritional Information

Broccoli salad with cranberries offers more than flavor. Broccoli supplies fiber vitamin C vitamin K and antioxidants that support overall health. Raw broccoli maintains these nutrients better than cooked versions.

Cranberries contribute natural sweetness along with antioxidants known for supporting urinary tract health. Although dried cranberries contain added sugar their small amount still fits into balanced diets when paired with fiber rich vegetables.

Sunflower seeds provide healthy fats vitamin E and magnesium. Cheese adds calcium and protein which support bone health. Dressing ingredients contribute calories but also enhance satisfaction which helps prevent overeating.

A typical serving delivers a mix of carbohydrates fats and protein. Portion control plays an important role due to the richness of the dressing. Using lighter dressing options can reduce calorie density while preserving flavor.

Overall this salad fits well into balanced meal plans when enjoyed mindfully. Pairing it with lean protein or whole grains creates a complete and nourishing meal.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli salad with cranberries works across seasons and settings. Serve it chilled alongside grilled chicken fish or tofu. The crisp texture complements smoky flavors perfectly.

At picnics and potlucks this salad stands out because it holds up without wilting. It can sit out briefly without losing structure which makes it ideal for gatherings.

For lunch enjoy it on its own or spooned into a whole grain wrap. Adding extra protein transforms it into a satisfying midday meal.

During holidays it pairs well with roasted meats and hearty sides. The freshness balances heavier dishes and brightens the plate visually.

Serve it in a large shallow bowl to showcase colors. Garnish with extra cranberries or seeds for visual appeal. Presentation enhances enjoyment and invites guests to dig in.

Broccoli Salad with Cranberries Easy Healthy Recipe Guide

Recipe by Shawn MichaleCourse: Blog
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets finely chopped

  • 1 cup dried cranberries

  • 1 small red onion finely chopped

  • 1 half cup sunflower seeds

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup mayonnaise

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 3 tablespoons honey or sugar

  • Salt to taste

  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  • Wash the broccoli thoroughly and dry it completely. Cut the florets into small bite sized pieces for the best texture.
  • Place the chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl. Add dried cranberries red onion sunflower seeds and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss to combine.
  • In a separate bowl whisk together mayonnaise apple cider vinegar and honey until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper according to taste.
  • Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Stir slowly and gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • For best flavor allow the salad to chill overnight. This helps the cranberries soften and the dressing absorb into the broccoli.
    Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe. Frozen broccoli is not recommended because it releases excess moisture.
    To reduce calories replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
    This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can broccoli salad with cranberries be made ahead of time

Yes this salad benefits from resting time. Making it several hours or even a day ahead improves flavor and texture. Store it covered in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

How long does broccoli salad with cranberries last

When stored properly in an airtight container it stays fresh for up to three days. Texture remains crisp and flavors continue to meld nicely.

Can frozen broccoli be used

Fresh broccoli works best for crunch and appearance. Frozen broccoli releases too much moisture and becomes soft which affects texture.

Is broccoli salad with cranberries healthy

The salad offers vitamins fiber and antioxidants. Moderation matters due to dressing calories. Lighter dressing options increase health benefits.

What can replace mayonnaise

Greek yogurt vegan mayonnaise or a yogurt based dressing serve as excellent substitutes. Flavor and creaminess remain satisfying.

Conclusion

Broccoli salad with cranberries brings together texture color and flavor in a way that feels both comforting and fresh. Each ingredient plays a clear role yet blends seamlessly into a cohesive dish that satisfies many tastes. The balance between crisp vegetables creamy dressing and sweet fruit creates a salad that never feels boring.

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