This lightened-up broccoli salad is a fresh and vibrant take on the classic. Tossed with a tangy dressing, crunchy smoky tamari almonds, and sweet dried cranberries, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. It’s dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and can be made vegan, making it a perfect side for cookouts, potlucks, or everyday meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Easy to Make – Just 25 minutes from start to finish.
No Cooking Required (Except for Nuts) – A mostly raw salad for a crisp, fresh bite.
Diet-Friendly – Dairy-free, gluten-free, and easily made vegan.
Great for Meal Prep – The flavors deepen as it sits.

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Essential Tools & Equipment

• Baking sheet – For roasting the almonds and pepitas.
• Mixing bowls – One for the dressing, one for tossing the salad.
• Whisk – Helps emulsify the dressing.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – For chopping broccoli and onions.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking when roasting nuts.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Salad

• 1 pound broccoli crowns, chopped into ½-inch florets and ¼-inch diced stems
• ⅓ cup diced red onions
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
• 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)

For the Smoky Tamari Almonds

• ½ cup almonds
• ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1 tablespoon tamari
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (more to taste)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika.
3. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Let cool for 5 minutes (they will crisp up as they cool).

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, garlic, and salt until smooth and emulsified.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Add the chopped broccoli, red onions, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
3. Mix in the roasted almonds and pepitas, reserving a few for garnish.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Sprinkle the reserved nuts and seeds on top for extra crunch.
3. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later.

Best Ways to Serve This Broccoli Salad

This broccoli salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether served as a side or incorporated into a larger spread, its fresh and crunchy texture enhances any menu. Here are some great ways to serve it:

• As a Side Dish – Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
• With Sandwiches or Wraps – Complements grilled cheese, veggie wraps, or turkey sandwiches.
• Alongside Grilled Proteins – Pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or tofu.
• Over Grain Bowls – A great addition to quinoa, brown rice, or farro bowls.
• As a Light Lunch – Enjoy on its own for a fresh, nutritious meal.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for and how to perfect your salad.

1. Using Large Broccoli Pieces

• Cutting the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces ensures a more enjoyable texture and better absorption of the dressing.
• Aim for ½-inch florets and finely dice the stems for a balanced bite.

2. Not Allowing the Salad to Marinate

• While this salad can be eaten immediately, letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld.
• For even better results, make it a few hours ahead of time.

3. Overloading with Sweet Ingredients

• Dried cranberries add a nice sweetness, but too many can overpower the dish.
• If you prefer a more balanced flavor, reduce the cranberries slightly or add extra tangy elements like a squeeze of lemon juice.

4. Skipping the Crunchy Almonds and Pepitas

• These roasted nuts and seeds provide a key contrast in texture.
• If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower seeds or extra pepitas instead of almonds.

5. Overdressing the Salad

• Start with a moderate amount of dressing and add more as needed.
• Broccoli has a tendency to soak up dressing over time, so reserving a little extra to add before serving can help maintain the best consistency.

8 Delicious Side Dish Pairings

Broccoli salad is a flavorful side, but it pairs even better with complementary dishes. Here are eight great options to serve alongside it:

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken – The bright citrus flavors complement the tangy dressing.
2. Quinoa & Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed vegetarian option for a balanced meal.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – The sweetness of the fries contrasts well with the tangy salad.
4. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds more greens and enhances the texture variety.
5. Vegan Lentil Soup – A warm, comforting dish that balances the fresh crunch of the salad.
6. Balsamic Glazed Tofu – The smoky, tangy glaze pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch.
7. Corn on the Cob with Lime Butter – A simple, refreshing side with a burst of citrus.
8. Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes – A creamy, spicy contrast to the crisp salad.

Expert Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad

A few simple techniques can take this salad from good to great. Follow these tips for the best flavor and texture.

1. Let the Salad Rest Before Serving

• While the salad can be eaten immediately, allowing it to sit for at least 15 minutes helps the dressing absorb into the broccoli.
• For even better flavor, refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.

2. Use Fresh, Crisp Broccoli

• Avoid broccoli that looks wilted or yellowing.
• If your broccoli has a slightly bitter taste, blanch it in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse with cold water to maintain crunch while softening the bite.

3. Adjust Sweetness and Tang to Taste

• If the salad tastes too sweet, add extra Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar for more tang.
• If it’s too tangy, a small drizzle of maple syrup or honey can balance the flavors.

4. Keep the Nuts Crunchy

• If making the salad ahead of time, store the roasted almonds and pepitas separately and mix them in just before serving.
• This prevents them from softening due to the dressing.

5. Customize with Extra Ingredients

• Add shredded carrots or chopped celery for more crunch.
• Mix in cooked quinoa for a heartier version.
• Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese if dairy is not a concern.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The flavors will continue to develop, but the nuts may soften over time.

Make-Ahead Tips

• To prepare in advance, chop the broccoli, onions, and cranberries and store them in the fridge.
• Make the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.
• Store the roasted almonds and pepitas in a separate container at room temperature.

Freezing

• This salad is not freezer-friendly, as the broccoli will become too soft and watery when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is best for this salad. If using frozen, blanch and drain it thoroughly before adding to prevent excess moisture.

2. What can I substitute for almonds?

For a nut-free version, swap almonds for sunflower seeds or extra pepitas. Cashews or pecans can also be used for a different flavor.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tamari used for the almonds is certified gluten-free. Regular soy sauce contains gluten, so avoid it if necessary.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes. Simply use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey.

5. How long does this salad stay fresh?

It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the nuts may lose their crunch.

Conclusion

This broccoli salad is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious dish that works for any occasion. With its combination of tangy dressing, crunchy nuts, and sweet cranberries, it provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served at a barbecue, packed for meal prep, or enjoyed as a simple side dish, it’s an easy recipe that delivers great results. By following the tips on storage, preparation, and customization, you can make this salad exactly the way you like it.