The crisp broccoli florets paired with sharp cheddar cheese and sweet dried cranberries make this Autumn Broccoli Cheddar Salad a delightful addition to any fall table. The sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch, while the tangy yogurt dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.
This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side dish or a light lunch. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a festive potluck, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of textures and flavors.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, shredded cheddar, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and chopped red onion.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: None | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 225 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Inspiration
Broccoli salads are a staple in many kitchens, particularly in Western countries, where fresh produce is abundant year-round. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional American broccoli salads, often enjoyed at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. Adding cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing gives this classic dish a unique autumn twist, making it perfect for seasonal celebrations.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Broccoli: Known as a superfood, broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. It’s a nutrient powerhouse that supports a healthy immune system and digestion.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, creamy flavor and provides calcium and protein, enhancing the salad’s nutritional value.
- Dried Cranberries: These tiny bursts of sweetness are rich in antioxidants and add a contrasting texture to the salad.
- Sunflower Seeds: A crunchy addition that’s also a good source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium.
- Greek Yogurt: A lighter alternative to traditional mayonnaise-only dressings, Greek yogurt contributes probiotics, protein, and a creamy texture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey: These ingredients create a tangy-sweet dressing that balances the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Tips for Customization
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, mix in shredded chicken, bacon crumbles, or cooked quinoa.
- Make It Vegan: Swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayo and yogurt in the dressing.
- Amp Up the Crunch: Include toasted almonds, pecans, or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Toss in diced apples, roasted sweet potatoes, or golden raisins for added seasonal flair.
Pairing Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:
- Main Course: Roasted chicken, baked salmon, or a hearty vegetable casserole.
- Beverage: A crisp apple cider, sparkling water with a hint of lemon, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Dessert: Pumpkin spice cookies, apple pie, or a light lemon sorbet.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will intensify as it sits, but the sunflower seeds may lose some of their crunch. Add fresh seeds just before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: This salad is not recommended for freezing as the broccoli and yogurt-based dressing may not retain their quality.
Nutritional Highlights
Each serving provides a balanced mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats while remaining relatively low in calories. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet without sacrificing flavor.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Autumn
Autumn is the season of vibrant colors and hearty flavors, and this salad beautifully captures the essence of fall. The crisp, earthy broccoli combined with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the sweetness of dried cranberries mirrors the season’s balance of bold and comforting flavors. The creamy yogurt dressing ties the ingredients together, making it a versatile dish for family gatherings, holiday tables, or even a healthy weekday side.
Unique Features of the Recipe
- Seasonal Ingredients: This recipe makes use of readily available autumn ingredients like broccoli and cranberries, making it cost-effective and easy to prepare.
- Balanced Flavors: The sweet, savory, tangy, and creamy elements create a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to a wide audience.
- Nutrient-Packed: This dish is rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
How to Serve and Present
- As a Side Dish: Serve this salad alongside roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork for a hearty meal.
- As a Light Main Course: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a filling, protein-rich main dish.
- Plating Tips: Arrange the salad in a shallow, wide bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with extra cheddar shreds and sunflower seeds for added visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Pro Tips
- For Maximum Crunch: Use fresh, raw broccoli florets. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then immediately transfer it to an ice bath to maintain its bright green color.
- Dressing Consistency: For a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon of water or milk. For a tangier flavor, increase the apple cider vinegar by 1 teaspoon.
- Ingredient Prep: Chop all ingredients uniformly to ensure each bite is perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations
- Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Go Nut-Free: Replace sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds or omit entirely for a nut-free option.
- Boost the Veggies: Add shredded carrots, diced red peppers, or thinly sliced kale for additional color and nutrition.
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping cheddar with feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Broccoli: Loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, it promotes digestion and strengthens the immune system.
- Cheddar Cheese: A great source of calcium and protein, adding a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to heavy mayonnaise, it adds creaminess while providing probiotics and protein.
- Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants, cranberries offer a natural sweetness and help fight inflammation.
- Sunflower Seeds: Packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, these seeds contribute crunch and nutrition.
Fun Facts About Broccoli
- Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family and has been cultivated for over 2,000 years.
- It was first introduced to the United States in the 1920s and gained popularity as a health food.
- Broccoli’s name comes from the Italian word “broccolo,” meaning “the flowering crest of a cabbage.”
Conclusion
The Autumn Broccoli Cheddar Salad is a perfect blend of crisp textures, vibrant colors, and seasonal flavors. With its mix of broccoli, cheddar, cranberries, and a creamy yogurt dressing, it’s both nutritious and delicious, making it ideal for any fall gathering or cozy meal at home.
Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your seasonal recipe collection. Let us know how you enjoy it and feel free to make it your own!