Herbed Broccoli Salad
A vibrant herbed broccoli salad featuring fresh vegetables tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for a light, flavorful side or healthy appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine salad oil, white vinegar, salt, crushed basil, garlic powder, and black pepper; set aside.
- Bring 2 inches salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add sliced carrots and broccoli medallions; simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets; simmer for 1 minute.
- Drain vegetables and place in a bowl.
- Toss vegetables with the reserved dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate until chilled or overnight.
- Serve garnished with lettuce leaves, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Herbed Broccoli Salad, consider adding a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the salad oil with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a crunchier salad, add some toasted nuts or seeds. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Herbed Broccoli Salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with smoked ham slices and apple ham slices for a hearty meal. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or alongside crusty bread for added texture. For a complete spread, consider including Crunchy Granola Bars as a dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. If you plan to reheat, do so gently in the microwave, but note that the salad is best enjoyed cold. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Broccoli Salad contains roughly 507 calories, with 12g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value), and potassium (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2128mg per serving (93% 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 use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets and medallions. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding, as frozen vegetables can release excess water. Cook them for a slightly shorter time to prevent mushiness, as they are partially cooked during freezing.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already quite vegan-friendly as it primarily contains vegetables and a dressing without animal products. Just ensure that your salad oil is plant-based, and consider substituting any honey or non-vegan ingredients in dressings if you choose to add them. It's a great option for vegan recipes!
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content of your Herbed Broccoli Salad, consider adding chickpeas or white beans. Grilled chicken or tofu can also work well if you're looking for a heartier option. Nuts like almonds or walnuts will add both protein and texture, making it a satisfying meal.
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).