Drop In Salad
Drop In Salad is a crisp, flavorful dish featuring fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy pecans, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette with a touch of lemon. Perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or light lunches, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped pecans, and chopped red onion.
- Combine the red wine vinaigrette and lemon juice in a small bowl or jar, then drizzle over the salad.
- Toss the salad to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, add the pecans just before serving. If you prefer a different cheese, feta or goat cheese can make a delightful substitute. To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This salad is versatile, so feel free to switch the dressing; a balsamic vinaigrette works wonderfully too. For an extra kick, add some crumbled red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Drop In Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great addition to any summer barbecue. Serve it alongside Company Mashed Potatoes for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. This salad can also be served as a light lunch with crusty bread on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become soggy due to the dressing, so consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. To refresh the flavors, toss the salad lightly before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drop In Salad contains roughly 161 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
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 up to a day in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If you want to prep ahead, chop the veggies and store them separately in the fridge.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you're not a fan of broccoli, you can easily substitute it with cauliflower or even a mix of other greens like spinach and kale. These alternatives will provide a similar crunch and texture while still being delicious.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure that the red wine vinaigrette does not contain any animal products, or make your own using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
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).