Broccoli Cashew Salad
A vibrant and crunchy salad featuring fresh broccoli, toasted cashews, sweet golden raisins, and crispy bacon, all coated in a creamy, sweet dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light main, it combines savory, sweet, and nutty flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes and occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix broccoli, cashews, golden raisins, and crumbled bacon in a large bowl.
- Combine mayonnaise and sugar in a separate bowl and mix well.
- Add the dressing to the salad just before serving and toss to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider toasting the cashews lightly before adding them to the salad. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the bacon with a smoked paprika for a vegetarian option, or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative. This salad is versatile and can be adapted to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cashew Salad is perfect for potlucks or as a side dish for grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Pork recipes or can be served alongside a light main dish like Scrambled Eggs In Pita Pockets. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crispness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If reheating is necessary, warm the bacon separately and then mix it back in with the salad before serving to maintain its crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cashew Salad contains roughly 722 calories, with 10g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (29% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients a day in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the broccoli crisp. Store the salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for golden raisins?
If you don't have golden raisins, you can use regular raisins or even dried cranberries for a tart flavor. Both options will provide a nice contrast to the creamy dressing and crunchy broccoli.
Is there a vegan version of this salad?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative like avocado or vegan mayo. You can also omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy chickpeas for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).