Description
A vibrant and crunchy broccoli salad featuring fresh broccoli, carrot, apple, and toasted nuts, all tossed in a creamy and tangy lemon dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or light lunch, this salad comes together quickly and is packed with texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruit
- 2 medium broccoli heads (about 1 lb), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large carrot, grated or julienned
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- 1/2 small red onion (about 1/4 cup), thinly sliced
Nuts and Dried Fruit
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup craisins or raisins
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Toast the Nuts: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and toast the walnuts or pecans for about 4-5 minutes, tossing occasionally to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. Once toasted, transfer the nuts to a cutting board and chop them coarsely.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit: Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, grate or julienne the carrot, core and chop the apple, and thinly slice the red onion. Combine all these ingredients in a large salad bowl along with the toasted nuts and dried craisins or raisins.
- Make the Creamy Lemon Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust the sugar to taste if desired.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the creamy lemon dressing over the salad ingredients. Use the full amount or add to taste, then toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Notes
- Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds crunch to the salad—be sure to watch them carefully to avoid burning.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or vice versa depending on your preference.
- Adjust sugar in the dressing according to your desired sweetness level.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead but is best enjoyed fresh to maintain crispness.
- For a tangier dressing, you can add a splash of apple cider vinegar or more lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American