If you’re searching for a nutritious and delicious addition to your dinner table, look no further than Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad. Bursting with color and flavor, this salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of healthy eating that your taste buds will thank you for. It’s the perfect mix of crunchy broccoli, zesty dressing, and delightful mix-ins that create a wholesome, feel-good dish bringing everyone around the table together.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple enough for beginners but rewarding for seasoned cooks.
- Nutritious Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins and minerals, you’ll feel great about serving this dish to your family.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of ingredients offers a delightful mix of tastes and textures in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this salad fits right in.
- Customizable: Mix and match ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad lies in its fresh and simple ingredients. Each component contributes to a vibrant flavor profile, making every mouthful a treat. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Broccoli: The star of the show, bringing a crisp texture and rich nutrient content.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness add flavor and a pop of color.
- Red Onion: For a slightly sharp taste that balances the sweetness and adds depth.
- Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta adds richness and enhances the overall appeal.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the salad and elevates the flavors.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the mingling of flavors and adds a lovely smoothness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Variations for Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad
One of the best parts of Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or to cater to dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Swap the Cheese: Try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor.
- Add Nuts: Toss in walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Mix in Grains: Quinoa or farro can be great additions for a more filling salad.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up a bit.
- Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill can elevate the freshness of this salad.
How to Make Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect roasted texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking.
Step 3: Roast the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred.
Step 4: Chop Additional Vegetables
While the broccoli is roasting, chop your cherry tomatoes and red onion. This allows for a fresh contrast in flavor and texture.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the roasted broccoli with the chopped tomatoes, onion, and feta cheese.
Step 6: Add Dressing
Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and give everything a gentle toss. Your salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips for Making Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad
- Chill Ingredients: Let your vegetables cool before adding any cheese or dressing to prevent wilting.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Giving space to the broccoli helps achieve optimal roasting.
- Quality Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil for richer flavor and better health benefits.
- Prep Ahead: Chopping vegetables and preparing the dressing ahead saves time on busy days.
- Serve It Warm or Cold: This salad is delicious both fresh off the oven and chilled from the fridge.
How to Serve Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad
Garnishes
To add a finishing touch, consider sprinkling some toasted seeds or more herbs on top for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as part of a larger buffet spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a colorful bowl or on a platter with fresh lemon wedges for your guests to squeeze over before eating. It adds a wonderful touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This salad keeps well, but you may want to add fresh dressing upon serving.
Freezing
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze roasted broccoli separately. However, once combined with other ingredients, it’s not recommended to freeze.
Reheating
If you do prefer some warmth in your salad, gently reheat the broccoli before combining it again. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as textures can become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
It’s always best to use fresh broccoli for texture and flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add any dressing right before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of lemon juice?
If you prefer a different flavor, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be great alternatives to lemon juice.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for gluten-sensitive guests.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad is not only brimming with flavor but also incredibly versatile and healthy. Try making it for your next meal, and I assure you, it will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the crunch, the taste, and the joyful moments it brings to your table!
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Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and nutritious salad, featuring crunchy broccoli, sweet cherry tomatoes, zesty dressing, and creamy feta cheese. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any meal occasion, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
- 1 large head of Fresh Broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 Red Onion, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Other
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect roasted texture.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking.
- Roast the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred.
- Chop Additional Vegetables: While the broccoli is roasting, chop your cherry tomatoes and red onion to add fresh contrast in flavor and texture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the roasted broccoli with the chopped tomatoes, onion, and feta cheese.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and give everything a gentle toss. Your salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
- Chill Ingredients: Let your vegetables cool before adding any cheese or dressing to prevent wilting.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Giving space to the broccoli helps achieve optimal roasting.
- Quality Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil for richer flavor and better health benefits.
- Prep Ahead: Chopping vegetables and preparing the dressing ahead saves time on busy days.
- Serve It Warm or Cold: This salad is delicious both fresh off the oven and chilled from the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg