Vegan Broccoli Salad Recipe
Introduction
This vegan broccoli salad is a fresh and vibrant dish, perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side. Packed with crunchy nuts, sweet dried cranberries, and a zesty dressing, it’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
- ⅛ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons agave
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced mint
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Step 1: In a standard bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, agave, minced mint, and orange juice (if using) until the dressing is well combined.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the walnuts and pumpkin seeds lightly before adding them.
- Try swapping dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots for a different sweetness.
- Adding diced red onion or shredded carrots can add color and flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, mix in a spoonful of vegan mayonnaise or tahini.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The broccoli may soften slightly over time, so for the freshest crunch, enjoy it within the first day. If the salad dries out, toss in a little extra olive oil or orange juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the dressing separately and combine it with the broccoli and other ingredients just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Vegan Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This vibrant Vegan Broccoli Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines crunchy broccoli, toasted walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sweet dried cranberries tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet olive oil and apple cider vinegar dressing with a hint of mint and optional orange juice. Perfect as a light lunch or a healthy side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with flavors and textures that delight the palate while being completely plant-based.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- ⅛ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons agave
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced mint
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
For the Salad
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a standard bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, agave, minced mint, and orange juice if using, until the mixture is thoroughly combined and emulsified, creating a tangy and slightly sweet dressing.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped broccoli, chopped walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries, ensuring an even distribution of all components for balanced flavor and texture.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, enhancing the flavors and bringing the salad together.
Notes
- For best texture, use fresh broccoli florets and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Toast the walnuts and pumpkin seeds lightly in a dry skillet to enhance their crunch and flavor before adding to the salad.
- The orange juice is optional but adds a subtle citrus brightness to the dressing. Omit it if you prefer a more vinegar-forward taste.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated; toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Feel free to substitute agave with maple syrup or another liquid sweetener of your choice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
Keywords: vegan broccoli salad, easy vegan salad, healthy broccoli salad, walnut pumpkin seed salad, no-cook salad, vegan side dish
