Say hello to your new favorite salad! My Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is a delicious mix of broccoli florets, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing.
This salad is perfect for those looking for a healthy, tasty dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe
Recipe Overview
- Course: Salad
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Calories Per Serving: 220
Ingredients
To make this delicious Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad, you will need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare The Broccoli
First, wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial to ensure the broccoli is clean and perfectly sized for easy eating.
2. Mix The Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, and shredded carrots. These colorful veggies form the base of our Broccoli Crunch Salad.
3. Add Crunch And Sweetness
Next, add the dried cranberries and sunflower seeds to the vegetable mix. The cranberries provide a sweet contrast, while the sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch.
4. Optional: Add Bacon And Cheese
If you’re including bacon in your salad, make sure it’s cooked and crumbled. Add it to the bowl along with the shredded cheddar cheese. This step is optional, but it adds a deliciously savory flavor to the salad.
5. Prepare The Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet.
6. Combine And Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to toss everything together until well-coated. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
7. Chill And Serve
Before serving, cover the salad and let it sit in the fridge for at least half an hour for the greatest flavor. This enables the flavors to harmoniously blend together.
Tips For The Perfect Broccoli Crunch Salad
- Freshness Matters: Always use fresh broccoli and high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like sliced almonds, raisins, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated.
- Dressing Alternative: For a healthier twist, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing.
Health Benefits Of Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad
Rich In Vitamins And Antioxidants
Broccoli provides high levels of vitamins C and K, which support immune health and bone strength.
Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, promoting eye health and skin vitality. Dried cranberries contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
Supports Digestion
Broccoli and carrots are high in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut. Apple cider vinegar in the dressing provides probiotics, enhancing digestive health.
Promotes Heart Health
Sunflower seeds offer healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The antioxidants in cranberries and broccoli help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
Boosts Immune System
The combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics in the salad ingredients strengthens the immune system.
Aids In Weight Management
High in fiber and low in calories, this salad helps in maintaining a healthy weight by promoting satiety and reducing overeating.
Enhances Overall Well-Being
The balanced blend of nutrients from vegetables, seeds, and natural sweeteners contributes to overall health and wellness.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Crunch Salad Whole Foods Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal.
It is flavorful, simple to prepare, and appropriate for any setting. As much as I enjoy this recipe, I hope you will too. Happy cooking!
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