This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Creamy Honey Lemon Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with a tangy-sweet dressing. Packed with dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and a creamy dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of broccoli
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries (craisins)
- 1/2 cup almond slices, toasted until golden
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
- 1/2 cup real mayonnaise
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly under cold water. Trim off any tough stems and cut them into small florets.
- Place the broccoli and cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Cranberries and Almonds:
- Add the dried cranberries and toasted almond slices to the bowl with the broccoli and cauliflower. The cranberries add a sweet-tart flavor, while the almonds provide a delightful crunch.
- Make the Creamy Honey Lemon Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, fresh lemon juice, and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined. The honey adds sweetness, the lemon juice brings a tangy zest, and the mayonnaise creates a creamy texture.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the creamy honey lemon dressing over the broccoli, cauliflower, cranberries, and almonds in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients. Ensure that each piece of vegetable is coated with the delicious dressing for maximum flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste of the salad.
- Final Touches and Serving:
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve the chilled Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Creamy Honey Lemon Dressing as a refreshing and nutritious side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone salad.
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Creamy Honey Lemon Dressing!
Ingredients Breakdown
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: These are the stars of the salad, both belonging to the cruciferous vegetable family, known for their cancer-fighting properties, high fiber content, and vitamins C and K. Broccoli and cauliflower add not only nutritional value but also a crisp texture and a mild, earthy flavor that serves as a great canvas for the dressing.
- Dried Cranberries (Craisins): Offering a sweet and tart contrast to the mild vegetables, cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to heart health and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Almond Slices: Toasted almond slices introduce a nutty flavor and crunch, adding a layer of texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cranberries and crisp vegetables. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium.
Creamy Honey Lemon Dressing
- Honey: This natural sweetener balances the tartness of the lemon and the bitterness of the vegetables, adding its antioxidant properties and soothing texture to the dressing.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon juice provides a bright, citrusy spark that lifts the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s also a great source of vitamin C, which can boost immune health and enhance iron absorption from the vegetables.
- Real Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise gives the dressing its creamy consistency and helps in amalgamating the flavors. It’s rich in healthy fats, which can be beneficial for heart health in moderation.
Preparation Tips
- Chilling the Salad: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour is crucial as it lets the flavors meld and intensify. The vegetables slightly soften, absorbing the dressing and making each bite flavorful.
- Adjusting Flavors: After chilling, it’s important to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a pinch of salt or extra lemon juice can be added to enhance the flavors further.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect addition to a summer barbecue. It can also serve as a wholesome addition to picnic baskets or a refreshing side at dinner parties.
- Presentation: Serve it in a large, colorful bowl or on individual plates with a garnish of extra toasted almonds or fresh parsley to enhance its visual appeal.