Name: Italian Broccoli Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Salad:; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads of broccoli); 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional); 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade); For Homemade Italian Dressing (optional):; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Broccoli Salad is a light, vibrant, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a refreshing side or a healthy snack. The crisp, tender broccoli florets are tossed with a tangy Italian dressing, sweet red onions, olives, and a variety of crunchy vegetables, making it a delicious blend of textures and flavors. This salad is not only incredibly easy to make but also versatile enough to complement any meal. It’s a great addition to barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners and is even better when made ahead of time!

Italian Broccoli Salad Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads of broccoli)
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional)
1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

For Homemade Italian Dressing (optional):

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into small florets. Steam the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, or blanch it in boiling water for a minute and then transfer it immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
Make the Dressing (if homemade): In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli florets, red onion slices, black olives, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Add the pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch, if desired.
Toss with Dressing: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring the dressing coats everything evenly.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a quick toss before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or herbs if desired. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful Italian-inspired salad!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (for blanching or steaming the broccoli)
Total time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make this salad a more substantial meal.
Swap the Dressing: If you prefer a creamy dressing, you can substitute the Italian dressing with ranch or a yogurt-based dressing for a different flavor.
Different Nuts or Seeds: Swap the pine nuts for chopped almonds, cashews, or walnuts for a unique twist on the salad.
Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh basil, parsley, or even a bit of thyme for added fragrance and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Italian Broccoli Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold, and the flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Freezing: This salad does not freeze well, as the vegetables and dressing will not maintain their texture once thawed.
Reheating: This salad is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge and toss it gently before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

While fresh broccoli is ideal, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is even better when made ahead of time. You can refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight for the best flavor.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use feta, mozzarella, or any other cheese you like. Feta will add a salty, tangy flavor, while mozzarella will offer a creamy texture.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make this salad vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using a vegan dressing or a homemade lemon vinaigrette instead.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even carrots to increase the variety of textures and flavors in the salad.

6. How do I make this salad spicy?

Add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the salad to give it a little heat.

7. Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?

Yes, store-bought Italian dressing works perfectly in this recipe. Just pour it over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.

8. Can I add beef to this salad?

Yes, crumbled beef would add a wonderful smoky flavor and crispy texture. Add it as a topping before serving for extra indulgence.

9. How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best to enjoy it within 24 hours to ensure the veggies remain crisp.

10. Can I use other types of olives in the salad?

Yes, you can substitute black olives with Kalamata olives or green olives for a different taste profile.

Conclusion

Italian Broccoli Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh broccoli, tangy dressing, and crunchy vegetables creates a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s versatile, full of flavor, and can be customized to your liking. Whether served as a side or a light meal, this salad will be a hit every time! Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors with every bite.

Chef MARTHA