Carolyn'S Broccoli Salad
A vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad with cauliflower, carrots, peas, and cheese, perfect for picnics or casual gatherings, offering fresh flavors and colorful appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, which can provide a delightful crunch. If you don't have fresh broccoli or cauliflower, frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch; just ensure they are thawed and drained. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with a sharp or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant broccoli salad is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics and pairs beautifully with *Lazy Days Of Summer Peach Cobbler* for dessert. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier fare.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing, as it may separate slightly during storage. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 550 calories, with 26g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (303% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 708mg 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 a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead. Just mix all the ingredients, but wait to add the dressing until right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and it will still taste fresh the next day.
What dressing do you recommend for this salad?
A classic dressing for broccoli salad is a combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar for sweetness. You can also use a store-bought ranch or vinaigrette if you're short on time, but homemade dressing often enhances the overall flavor.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This salad is a fantastic option for vegetarian recipes, as it is packed with fresh vegetables and cheese. Just ensure that the dressing you choose is also vegetarian-friendly, as some dressings may contain anchovies or other non-vegetarian ingredients.
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).