Broccoli-Tomato Salad
A vibrant and creamy broccoli-tomato salad combining fresh vegetables with a tangy mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, perfect for light lunches or side dishes at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli and green onions, including the tops.
- Quarter the cherry tomatoes.
- Mix sour cream, light mayonnaise, salt, and lemon pepper in a bowl.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the dressing and stir until well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider including some toasted nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds, which complement the salad well. If you need a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use a lighter mayonnaise variant. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can enhance flavor too. This salad is versatile, so feel free to replace broccoli with other vegetables, or add in some diced bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Tomato Salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish, and pairs beautifully with Vegi-Dip for a delightful appetizer spread. Serve it alongside bread or a light pasta dish for a complete meal. It’s also great for potlucks and picnics, adding a vibrant touch to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the vegetables may lose some crunch. If you need to reheat any portion, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but keep in mind that the salad is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Tomato Salad contains roughly 447 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 715mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
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 a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. Once mixed, it can last in the fridge for about 3 days, but for optimum crunch, mix just before serving.
What can I substitute for cherry tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just ensure they are fresh and firm to maintain texture. For a twist, try adding some diced avocados or olives for a different flavor profile.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarian diets?
Absolutely! This Broccoli-Tomato Salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those looking for vegetarian recipes. The combination of vegetables and dressing provides a satisfying dish without any meat, and it can easily be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences.
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).