Broccoli Salad with Grapes
A perfect balance of flavors and textures, this Broccoli Grape Salad is both vibrant and satisfying.
Fresh broccoli and juicy grapes mix with savory bacon, all tossed in a creamy dressing for a refreshing side dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re bringing it to a gathering or making it for a quick family meal, this salad’s irresistible crunch and flavor will be a crowd-pleaser.
Make this quick Broccoli Grape Salad your go-to for an easy, colorful side that’s bursting with flavor. This light, tangy dish adds a welcome pop of color and crunch to any table!
Key Ingredients for Broccoli Grape Salad
- Broccoli florets – Adds a fresh, hearty crunch and pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
- English cucumber – Offers a cool, refreshing bite that complements the sweetness of the grapes.
- Seedless red grapes – The juicy sweetness of the grapes balances the savory elements.
- Bacon – Adds a smoky, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
- Red onion – Provides a touch of sharpness to offset the sweet and creamy flavors.
- Toasted pine nuts – Contributes a nutty richness and a satisfying crunch. Substitute sunflower seeds for a budget-friendly option.
Creamy Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The base of the dressing, lending a rich creaminess.
- Lemon juice – Brings brightness and tang, balancing the mayo’s richness.
- Granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to mellow the savory flavors.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhances and balances all the flavors in the salad.
Quick Steps to Make Broccoli Grape Salad
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Toast the pine nuts: Using a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts on medium heat until golden brown and fragrant.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the broccoli, cucumber, grapes, red onion, bacon, and pine nuts.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the salad, toss to combine, and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Grape Salad
For extra freshness, rinse the broccoli and pat it dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the salad. Try blanching the broccoli briefly in boiling water for a softer texture, especially if you’re making it for younger eaters or prefer a tender bite. For those who like a little extra crunch, sunflower seeds are a great alternative to pine nuts and are equally delicious!
Adjust the lemon juice and sugar in the dressing based on your taste preferences—a bit more lemon juice for brightness or a touch of extra sugar for a hint of sweetness can elevate the flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the dressing may soften the broccoli and grapes over time, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors do meld beautifully if you need to make it a few hours in advance. Avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh ingredients do not hold up well when thawed.
Enjoy the delightful balance of fresh, sweet, and savory in every bite of this Broccoli Grape Salad!
Broccoli Grape Salad Recipe
Zutaten
- 1 lb broccoli crowns 2 medium heads, cut into small florets
- 1/2 English cucumber thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups seedless red grapes halved
- 6 oz bacon chopped and browned
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted (or sunflower seeds as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice or adjusted to taste
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Anleitungen
- In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
- In a separate dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they are golden and fragrant, stirring frequently for about 3 minutes. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cucumber slices, halved grapes, diced red onion, browned bacon, and toasted pine nuts.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.