Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that perfectly balances fresh, sweet, crunchy, and savory flavors, then you are going to fall in love with this Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe. It’s a vibrant mix of crisp broccoli, chewy dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and irresistibly seasoned pepitas that give each bite a fantastic textural surprise. This salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful addition to your table that feels wholesome and satisfying. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or making a quick lunch, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right sets the foundation for this delicious and colorful salad. Each element plays a crucial role, bringing together freshness, sweetness, creaminess, and crunch that keep this dish lively and exciting.

• Broccoli crowns (1 pound): The star of the salad, providing a fresh, crunchy base loaded with vitamins.
• Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps marry the dressing flavors.
• Mayonnaise (3 tablespoons): For a creamy texture and subtle tang.
• Apple cider vinegar (1½ tablespoons): Offers bright acidity to balance the creaminess.
• Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Injects a slight sharpness that wakes up the dressing.
• Maple syrup or honey (1 teaspoon): Brings a natural sweetness to round out the tartness.
• Garlic clove, minced (1): Adds depth and a mild spicy undertone.
• Sea salt (¼ teaspoon, adjust to taste): Enhances every flavor in the mix.
• Diced red onions (⅓ cup): Adds a zesty crunch and vibrant color.
• Dried cranberries (⅓ cup): Chewy and sweet, they bring a burst of tartness.
• Almonds (½ cup): Provide nutty crunch and a toasty flavor.
• Pepitas (½ cup): These pumpkin seeds become irresistibly crispy and spiced when roasted.
• Tamari (1 tablespoon): Deep umami flavor that seasons the seeds perfectly.
• Maple syrup (½ teaspoon): Sweetens the seed mixture for that perfect glaze.
• Smoked paprika (¼ teaspoon, or more to taste): Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the spiced seeds.

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your oven and broccoli

First, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper — this will be for roasting the nuts and seeds later. Then, chop the broccoli crowns into bite-size florets about half an inch wide. Don’t forget to peel the tougher woody parts of the stems before dicing them smaller; these add a lovely tender crunch and make sure nothing is wasted.

Step 2: Whisk the magical dressing

Create the salad dressing by whisking together the extra-virgin olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, and sea salt in a large bowl. This combination is creamy yet tangy, with a lovely hint of sweetness and a little kick from the mustard and garlic that gives the salad personality.

Step 3: Toss the base ingredients

Add the chopped broccoli, diced red onions, and dried cranberries into the bowl with your dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each piece is beautifully coated with that delicious dressing, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Roast the spiced seeds and nuts

On your prepared baking sheet, spread the almonds and pepitas. Drizzle them with tamari, maple syrup, and sprinkle smoked paprika over the top. Toss everything together so the seeds and nuts are well coated. Roast them in the oven for 10 to 14 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes; they will crisp up further as they rest.

Step 5: Combine and finish

Fold the cooled crunchy nuts and seeds into your salad mix. Save a small handful to sprinkle on top when serving for an extra pop of texture and flavor. Give the salad a final taste and add more sea salt if needed. And just like that, your Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle the reserved roasted nuts and seeds on top to add a delightful crunch with each bite. For a fresh finishing touch, consider adding a few finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to bring brightness and a burst of green that complements the broccoli beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a light pasta dish. It’s also fantastic alongside your favorite sandwich or as part of a picnic spread—its vibrant texture and balanced flavors can stand on its own or be a refreshing contrast to heartier mains.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party presentation, serve the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or make individual salad cups in small bowls for easy, mess-free serving. You can also pair it with a scoop of quinoa or couscous to make it a more filling, colorful grain bowl that will impress guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld and develop deliciously overnight. To keep the spiced seeds and nuts from going soggy, store them separately and add them just before serving.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well due to its fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, which can separate or become watery after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a couple of days.

Reheating

Since this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer, you can bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy all the flavors at their best.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or cashews all work beautifully here, each bringing their unique flavor and crunch. Just make sure to roast them similarly to get that perfect crispy texture.

Is there a vegan version of this Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe?

Yes! Simply swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or creamy avocado dressing, and use maple syrup instead of honey if you need it. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

How far ahead can I make this salad?

You can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies a day before. Toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness. Add the roasted nuts and seeds last to keep their crunch intact.

Can I substitute dried cranberries with another fruit?

Craisins are a classic choice, but dried cherries, blueberries, or even finely chopped dried apricots can add an exciting twist, keeping that sweet-tart flavor profile.

What if I don’t have tamari for roasting the seeds?

You can use soy sauce as a substitute, but tamari is gluten-free and less salty, which balances the spices nicely. If needed, just reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering the seeds.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Nuts, and Crispy Spiced Seeds Recipe is such a joy to make and eat. It’s a refreshing, nutritious, and uniquely flavorful salad that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your lunch or add a standout side dish to your dinner, this salad promises smiles and satisfied appetites. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to salad!

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