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Classic American-Style Broccoli and Red Onion Crunchy Salad

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Hey food lovers! Welcome back to Everything About Tasty Stuff (EATS) – your go-to spot for all things delicious and fresh. With summer vibes fully winding down, we just aren’t quite ready to let go! We’ve decided to cope by tossing together a crisp, refreshing salad that’ll be the star of any barbecue, picnic, or in this case, plain ol’ weeknight dinner. Today, we’re serving up a Classic American-Style Broccoli and Red Onion Crunchy Salad. It’s got the crunch, the color, and all the flavor you need to bring some sunshine to your table. Let’s get chopping!

A Little Salad History


Salads have been a staple in American cuisine for generations, evolving over time to include all sorts of ingredients, from simple greens to hearty, crunchy veggies. This broccoli and red onion crunchy salad is a modern twist, offering a blend of textures and flavors that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Think of it as a celebration of fresh produce with a dash of nostalgia!

Perfect Pairings


Need some ideas to round out your summer feast? This salad pairs perfectly with:

  • Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled burgers, chicken, or ribs for a balanced meal.
  • Picnic Fare: Pack this salad in a cooler for your next picnic. Its crunchiness holds up well, even on a warm day.
  • Weeknight Dinners: Enjoy it as a side with roasted chicken, fish, or your favorite veggie dishes.

Fun Twists and Variations


Want to make this salad uniquely yours? Here are a few ideas to switch it up:

  • Add Fruits: Toss in some diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and crunch.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapenos for a hint of heat.
  • Go Nuts: Swap sunflower seeds with chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
  • Cheese Swap: Try feta or blue cheese crumbles for a new flavor twist.

Why Broccoli Salad?


Why broccoli? Because it’s not only nutritious and full of fiber, but it also brings an unbeatable crunch. Pair it with the tang of red onion, a creamy dressing, and a few sweet and savory add-ins, and you’ve got a salad that’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Plus, it’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for making ahead. Let’s break down how to whip up this tasty summer treat.

Classic American-Style Broccoli and Red Onion Crunchy Salad

Recipe by everythingabouttastystuff
0.0 from 0 votes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

0

minutes


This Classic American-Style Broccoli and Red Onion Crunchy Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a delicious side for weeknight dinners. Loaded with fresh broccoli, crisp red onions, sweet dried cranberries, savory bacon, and crunchy sunflower seeds, it’s tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with Greek yogurt and apple cider vinegar. Simple to make and full of flavor, this salad will quickly become a go-to favorite for any occasion!

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets

  • 1 cup medium red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 medium carrots, grated or julienned

  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, roasted and unsalted

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • For the Dressing

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s Make the Salad


  • Prep the Veggies: Wash and chop your broccoli into small florets. Thinly slice the red onion and grate or julienne the carrots. A colorful salad is always more appetizing!
  • Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon slices until crispy. Once cooled, crumble them into small pieces.
  • Mix It Up: In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, carrots, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, bacon, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients together.

  • Whip Up the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

  • Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated.

  • Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Notes

  • Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Serving: If the salad becomes a bit dry after being stored, add a dollop of yogurt or a splash of vinegar to refresh the dressing.

Conclusion


There you have it! A Classic American-Style Broccoli and Red Onion Crunchy Salad that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and summertime vibes. It’s the kind of dish that adds brightness to any meal and can be tailored to your preferences. So, gather those fresh ingredients, and let’s bring a bowl of crunchy, creamy goodness to your table.

Don’t forget to share your creations with us by tagging #EATS on social media. We can’t wait to see your take on this summer classic. Happy cooking from EATS!

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