Healthy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Almonds, and Cheddar Cheese

Broccoli Can Even Win Its Way Into The Hearts Of Children

Broccoli has often been portrayed as one of those vegetables that kids just don’t like. Maybe it’s because of the way it’s sometimes overcooked, turning into a mushy, dull green blob that no one finds appetizing. But broccoli doesn’t have to be that way! When prepared right, it can be vibrant, crunchy, and absolutely delicious. I think the secret lies in steaming it just to the point where it’s tender yet still crisp, maintaining that beautiful bright green color. Add a few extra touches like a yummy dressing, sweet cranberries, crunchy almonds, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and suddenly, it’s a dish that even the pickiest eater can’t resist. This recipe is a perfect example of how you can take a simple vegetable and turn it into something truly special—something that even kids will love!

Did You Know?

Broccoli Boost: Broccoli is not just a versatile vegetable but a nutritional powerhouse! It's packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and numerous antioxidants. These nutrients help support the immune system, promote bone health, and may even reduce the risk of certain cancers. Interestingly, broccoli contains compounds that, when chopped or chewed, form sulforaphane, a substance known for its cancer-fighting properties. This crunchy veggie has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was first grown in the Mediterranean. Enjoying broccoli raw, as in this salad, ensures you get the maximum health benefits!

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

Salad:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped (about 1 lb broccoli)
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 1/3 cup diced red onion

Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Broccoli:
Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
Personal Tip: Immediately plunge the steamed broccoli into ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain its vibrant color. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the steamed and chilled broccoli, cheddar cheese, cranberries, almonds, and onion.
Personal Tip: Ensure the broccoli is completely dry before mixing to keep the salad crisp.

Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Personal Tip: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Combine:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
Personal Tip: Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the broccoli and other ingredients.

Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to soften slightly.
Personal Tip: Letting the salad chill enhances the flavors and gives the broccoli time to absorb the dressing.

Serve:
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Personal Tip: Garnish with extra almonds or a sprinkle of cheese for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220, Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 14g, Sugars: 7g, Total Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Sodium: 250mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Grate Your Own Cheese: Grating your own cheese is more economical and ensures there are no added anti-caking agents, which are often found in pre-grated cheese to prevent clumping. These additives can affect the texture and taste of your salad. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a superior flavor.

2. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is often more economical and has better flavor and texture than frozen varieties. When you buy fresh broccoli, you can also use the stems, which are often discarded, but they add extra crunch and nutrients to your salad.

3. Buy Ingredients in Bulk: Ingredients like honey, and dried cranberries can be bought in bulk to save money. They have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes, making bulk purchases a smart financial choice.

4. Make Your Own Dressing: Homemade dressing is not only cost-effective but also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. Store-bought dressings often contain preservatives and added sugars that you can avoid by making your own.

5. Toast Your Own Almonds: Toasting almonds at home is easy and enhances their flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and fragrant. This method is often cheaper than buying pre-toasted nuts.

6. Seasonal Shopping: Take advantage of seasonal sales and farmers' markets to buy fresh broccoli and other ingredients at lower prices. Seasonal produce is often fresher, more flavorful, and more affordable.

7. Make Ahead: Broccoli salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it a convenient dish for busy days. Just add the dressing closer to serving time to maintain the salad's crunch.

8. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged ones. Freshly chopped vegetables and herbs will provide better flavor and nutritional value. This is especially important for key ingredients like broccoli and onions.

9. Portion Control: Serve the salad in small bowls or cups to manage portion sizes and prevent overeating. This helps in maintaining a balanced diet and ensures that everyone gets a fair share of the delicious salad.

10. Proper Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Always give it a good stir before serving again.

How Does Broccoli Grow?

Broccoli is a fascinating vegetable to grow, especially if you're interested in organic gardening. It starts as a small seed, and with the right conditions, it grows into a sturdy plant with a thick stalk and large leaves. The part we eat, the broccoli head, is actually a cluster of flower buds. If left unharvested, these buds will eventually bloom into small yellow flowers. Growing broccoli organically can be a bit of a challenge, as it is a favorite of many garden pests, particularly caterpillars and aphids. However, with careful monitoring and natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or using neem oil, you can grow healthy, pesticide-free broccoli. It’s a rewarding experience to watch your broccoli plants thrive, knowing that the fresh, crunchy florets you harvest will be free of harmful chemicals and packed with nutrients. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown broccoli—crisp, flavorful, and perfect for recipes like this one.