Broccoli and sugar snap salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the crispness of fresh broccoli with the sweetness of sugar snap peas. This salad offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. The combination of these vegetables with a zesty dressing brings out their natural sweetness while adding a layer of tanginess. Not only is this salad delicious, but it's also packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick and healthy option, this broccoli and sugar snap salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Broccoli and sugar snap salad
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Trim the sugar snap peas and cut them in half if they are large. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion.
-
Blanch the Broccoli and Sugar Snap Peas
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and sugar snap peas, blanching them for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.
-
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Combine Salad Ingredients
- In a large salad bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion. Toss gently to mix.
-
Add Dressing
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and chopped parsley over the salad just before serving for added crunch and freshness.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes (for blanching)
- Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 as a side dish.
FAQs for Broccoli and sugar snap salad
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli and sugar snap peas? A: Fresh vegetables are preferred for the best texture, but you can use frozen if needed. Ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time. Store the salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this salad? A: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, or shredded carrots to enhance the salad's flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan? A: Yes, the salad is already vegan. Ensure that the honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar for a completely vegan option.
Q: How can I make the salad spicier? A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Broccoli and sugar snap salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that brings together the crisp textures of fresh vegetables with a zesty dressing. The combination of blanched broccoli, sweet sugar snap peas, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. The addition of sliced almonds and fresh parsley adds extra crunch and a burst of colour, making the salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a light lunch, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of this salad and make it a regular part of your meal planning!
