Crunchy, Creamy, Broccoli Bliss: A Salad Sensation!
Hey there, fellow food lovers!
Are you ready to revolutionize your relationship with broccoli? I know, I know, broccoli might not be at the top of everyone's favorite veggie list, but trust me on this one! We're taking broccoli from boring to brilliant with this utterly delicious and super easy broccoli salad. Forget the soggy, sad salads of the past; this one is bursting with flavor and texture!
The Secret Weapon: A Creamy, Dreamy Dressing
What makes this salad sing? It's all in the dressing! We're not talking about some bland, store-bought stuff. Oh no, we're making a homemade creamy dressing that's so good you'll want to put it on everything. Here's what goes into it:
- Vegan Mayo: The creamy base that makes everything smooth and luscious. Pick your favorite brand, or if you are feeling adventurous, make your own!
- Nutritional Yeast: This is the secret ingredient that gives it a cheesy, umami kick. It’s like a vegan cheat code for flavor.
- Miso Paste: A touch of white miso adds depth and saltiness that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon of Dijon brings a subtle heat and tang that ties everything together.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A little acid is essential to cut through the richness, bringing balance to the mix.
- Maple Syrup: Sweetness is a must and maple syrup is our go to, but any liquid sweetener will do.
- Garlic Powder: Just a dash of garlic powder will give it a subtle edge of flavour.
- Smoked Paprika: Just a hint will give the dressing a delicious smoky flavour
Whisk all these ingredients together, and voila! You have a dressing that is worthy of praise.
Broccoli: Cooked to Perfection
Now, let's talk about the star of the show: broccoli. We're not going to overcook it to a mushy mess. No, we're going for a bright green, slightly crisp texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the stems for a short amount of time (about 90 seconds) until they are almost tender.
- Add the tops and cook for a further 30 seconds. We are going for al dente, so keep an eye on it.
- Immediately drain and dunk the broccoli in ice-cold water to stop the cooking and keep that vibrant green color intact.
The Crunchy Element: Almond Bacon (or Toasted Almonds)
What's a great salad without a little crunch? I’ve added a sprinkle of almond bacon, which is the perfect pairing but, if that sounds like too much effort, simply toast some skin-on almonds in a frying pan until golden. Then, give them a dusting of smoked paprika.
The Final Assembly
Once your broccoli is cooled, gently toss it with the creamy dressing. Now sprinkle those crunchy almonds over it and your vibrant and flavourful broccoli salad is ready to go!
Why This Recipe is a Winner
- Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, it’s a guilt-free way to indulge.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a potluck contribution.
Time to Get Cooking!
So there you have it! A broccoli salad that's so delicious it might just turn you into a broccoli believer. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! Happy cooking, my friends!
Ingredients:
- 300g tenderstem broccoli (or regular broccoli)
- 80g vegan mayo
- 14g nutritional yeast
- 20ml apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp white miso paste
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (plus more for almonds if toasting)
- 35g almonds
- 5ml olive oil (optional)
Method:
- Cut broccoli into bite-size pieces.
- Boil stems for 90 seconds. Add the tops and boil for a further 30 seconds.
- Drain and immediately place in a bowl of ice-cold water.
- Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
- If not making almond bacon, toast almonds in a hot pan until golden. Add oil and smoked paprika.
- Gently toss the broccoli and the dressing, sprinkle over almonds.
- Serve and enjoy your broccoli masterpiece.
Enjoy!