Margaret'S Broccoli Salad
A vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad with cheddar, raisins, and nuts, perfect for picnics or potlucks, offering a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, raisins, cashews, and finely chopped green onion in a large bowl.
- Toss the salad ingredients with your preferred dressing until well coated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced apples or swapping cashews for sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. You can also use low-fat cheese to reduce calories. If you prefer a creamier dressing, mix in some Greek yogurt or sour cream. Ensure the broccoli is blanched for a brighter color and tender crunch. This salad can also be part of vegetarian recipes for a healthy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this broccoli salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch option. It pairs beautifully with Spiced Cranberry Nut Stuffing for a festive meal. Consider adding some cooked quinoa for extra protein or serving it alongside a fruit salad like In The Pink Salad for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. To refresh the salad before serving, add a splash of dressing or a squeeze of lemon juice. Avoid freezing as the texture of the broccoli and cheese may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 456 calories, with 13g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 7g 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 a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the broccoli from becoming soggy. This makes it a great option for gatherings or meal prep.
What dressing works best for this salad?
A classic choice is a sweet vinaigrette or a creamy dressing like ranch or a yogurt-based dressing. You can also use a homemade honey mustard dressing for a delightful sweetness that complements the raisins.
Is this salad suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The sweet raisins and crunchy cashews often appeal to children, making it a great way to introduce them to vegetables. You can also tailor the ingredients based on their preferences by adding or omitting certain items.
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).