Broccoli Crunch Salad | Whole Foods Copycat

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Ingredients

To make the delicious and nutritious Broccoli Crunch Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh broccoli florets: Make sure to cut off the florets from the stem. You can choose to keep them raw or blanch them in hot boiling water for a short time.
• Red onion: Thinly slice half of a red onion to add a hint of tanginess to the salad.
• Fresno chili: Remove the seeds and stem from one Fresno chili and thinly slice it. This will add a touch of spiciness to the salad.
• Yogurt: Use your favorite plain yogurt for a creamy and tangy dressing.
• Blueberries: Add a pop of sweetness and antioxidant benefits with fresh blueberries.
• Granola: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some granola over the salad.
• Black pepper: Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for some extra flavor.
• Honey: Drizzle a bit of honey to balance out the flavors and add a touch of natural sweetness.
• Garlic salt: Enhance the taste with a sprinkle of garlic salt.
• Cayenne pepper: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Bacon: Optional but highly recommended for a savory and crispy garnish.

These ingredients come together to create a refreshing and satisfying salad that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Instructions

To make the delicious and nutritious Broccoli Crunch Salad, follow these simple instructions:

1. Start by cleaning and washing the broccoli florets. You can choose to keep them raw for a crunchy texture or blanch them in hot boiling water for 20 to 60 seconds to soften them slightly. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice half of a red onion into thin slices. Remove the seeds and stem from one Fresno chili and thinly slice it.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, sliced red onion, and Fresno chili.
4. Add in your favorite plain yogurt for a creamy and tangy dressing. Mix it well with the other ingredients.
5. Next, add fresh blueberries to the salad for a pop of sweetness and antioxidant benefits.
6. Sprinkle some granola over the salad for a delightful crunch.
7. Season the salad with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, garlic salt, and cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
8. Drizzle a bit of honey over the salad to balance out the flavors and add a touch of natural sweetness.
9. Mix all the ingredients together well, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed.
10. Optional but highly recommended: garnish the salad with crispy bacon for a savory twist.

Now, your Broccoli Crunch Salad is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a side dish or as a light and refreshing meal on its own.

FAQ

Substitutions:

When it comes to broccoli crunch salad, there are a few substitutions you can make to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

1. Nuts: Instead of using almonds in your salad, you can try swapping them out for walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor and texture.
2. Dried Fruit: If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even dried cherries for a touch of sweetness.
3. Dressing: While the recipe calls for yogurt-based dressing, you can experiment with different dressings like a lemon vinaigrette, balsamic vinegar, or even a honey mustard dressing to add variety.
4. Cheese: If you're not a fan of feta cheese, you can replace it with crumbled goat cheese, shredded cheddar, or even Parmesan for a different taste.

Remember, these substitutions can help customize the broccoli crunch salad to your liking, so don't be afraid to get creative and try different ingredients that appeal to you.

Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and crispness of your broccoli crunch salad. After making the salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent the salad from wilting or becoming soggy. It is recommended to consume the salad within 2-3 days to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

When storing the salad, it's best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. This will help prevent the salad from becoming too moist and losing its crunchiness. If you prefer a pre-dressed salad, make sure to toss it well before storing to evenly distribute the dressing.

Remember to always check the quality of the salad before consuming. If you notice any signs of spoilage or an unpleasant odor, it's best to discard the salad to avoid any foodborne illnesses. By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your delicious and healthy broccoli crunch salad for several days.

What to Serve With Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad on its own is already a delicious and nutritious dish, but if you're looking to make it a complete meal, here are some fantastic options to serve alongside it.

1. Grilled Chicken: Adding some grilled chicken breast or sliced chicken strips to your plate will provide a good source of protein and make your meal more filling. You can marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or sauce for added flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli pairs well with other roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. Simply toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve your broccoli salad with a side of cooked quinoa or brown rice. This will add some healthy carbohydrates and make it a more satisfying meal option.
4. Grilled Salmon: For a heart-healthy option, serve your broccoli salad alongside a perfectly grilled salmon fillet. The combination of the fresh greens and the rich flavors of the salmon will create a delightful balance.
5. Fresh Fruits: Add some freshness and sweetness to your plate by serving seasonal fruits like sliced strawberries, grapes, or oranges. The burst of flavors and vibrant colors will complement the broccoli salad perfectly.