Broccoli salad revolution: can coleslaw dressing transform your meal?

Absolutely! Broccoli salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that pairs perfectly with the tangy and sweet flavors of coleslaw dressing. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, potluck, or simply craving a healthy and flavorful side dish, this recipe will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

For the Coleslaw Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Place the florets in a large bowl.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the shredded carrots, sliced red onion, bacon (if using), sunflower seeds, and raisins (if using) to the bowl with the broccoli.
3. Make the Coleslaw Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the coleslaw dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the broccoli salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your broccoli salad, such as shredded cabbage, sliced cucumbers, or bell peppers.
• Swap out the dressing: If you don’t have coleslaw dressing on hand, you can use another creamy dressing, such as ranch or Thousand Island dressing.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled blue cheese over the broccoli salad before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a nice crunch to broccoli salad.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve broccoli salad as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or chicken.
• Pack it in a lunchbox for a healthy and portable meal.
• Enjoy it as a light and refreshing snack.

Health Benefits of Broccoli Salad:

• Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Coleslaw dressing provides a good dose of healthy fats and protein.
• The combination of vegetables and dressing makes this salad a nutritious and satisfying dish.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

Q: How long will broccoli salad keep in the refrigerator?
A: Broccoli salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make broccoli salad up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.