Raisin Broccoli Toss
A crunchy, sweet-tart broccoli salad with raisins and walnuts, coated in a creamy lemon dressing—perfect as a side dish or potluck contribution for a fresh, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss broccoli florets, chopped walnuts, raisins, and golden raisins together in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine salad dressing, sugar, lemon juice, half and half cream, and vinegar.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the broccoli mixture.
- Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, to give the dish a unique twist. This recipe is perfect for potlucks or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Serving Suggestions
This Raisin Broccoli Toss pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing meal. You can serve it alongside American recipes like BBQ ribs or burgers for a delightful contrast. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it with Quinoa Salad or Fruit Stuffed Tomatoes to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and become even more delicious. When ready to serve, give the salad a good toss as the dressing may settle. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Broccoli Toss contains roughly 609 calories, with 7g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (30% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. 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 in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just prepare the broccoli and dressing separately, and combine them right before serving. This allows the flavors to develop without the broccoli becoming too soggy.
What can I substitute for the sugar?
If you want to reduce sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. Alternatively, you can omit the sugar entirely if you prefer a less sweet taste, as the raisins already contribute some sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Raisin Broccoli Toss is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that the salad dressing you use is also gluten-free, as some store-bought options may contain gluten.
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).