Marinated Broccoli Salad

Introduction

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Marinated Broccoli Salad, a vibrant and zesty dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy side for any meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables in a delicious and light salad. The marination process enhances the flavors, making each bite a burst of bright, tangy goodness.

How to Make Marinated Broccoli Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cucumber, peeled, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled, thinly sliced
• 3 oz sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
• 6 Campari tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Combine all the veggies and olives in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours to allow the flavors to marinate.
4. Before serving, stir in parsley, tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Best enjoyed within a day of preparation.

How to Serve Marinated Broccoli Salad

Serve this salad chilled as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light meal on its own. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy option for lunch.

How to Store Marinated Broccoli Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious for the next meal.

Tips to Make Marinated Broccoli Salad

• For added crunch, you can toast some pine nuts or sunflower seeds and sprinkle them over the salad before serving.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Ensure the vegetables are well-coated with the marinade to maximize the flavor in every bite.

Variation

To make this salad vegan, omit the parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add in some grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s best to let it marinate for at least 4 hours for the flavors to develop, making it a great make-ahead dish.
2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Fresh herbs will add a vibrant burst of flavor to the salad.
3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the salad before serving? Chilling the salad helps the flavors meld together, but you can serve it immediately if desired.