Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad
Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad is a crisp and refreshing side dish featuring fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, and a creamy lemon poppy seed dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- pot
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- ½ cup toasted salted sunflower seeds
- ½ tablespoon poppy seeds
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 1 large lemon
- 1 package 225 g / 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar
- 4 heads fresh broccoli cut into bite-sized florets
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets.
- Optional: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds.
- Transfer immediately to ice water.
- Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
- Place the broccoli into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the dried cranberries, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and cubed cheddar cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Whisk in the poppy seeds.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes before serving.
- Toss once more and serve chilled.
Notes & Wine Advice
Recipe Notes
Blanching the broccoli is optional but helps create a brighter color while keeping the florets crisp. Allow the salad to chill before serving so the dressing has time to coat every ingredient. Toast the almonds lightly to enhance their nutty flavor and add even more crunch. This salad can be prepared several hours in advance, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.Wine Advice
A crisp Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the fresh lemon dressing and crunchy vegetables. For a slightly fruitier pairing, enjoy a chilled Dry Riesling alongside this refreshing salad.Nutrition values
Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 30 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 410 mg | Sugar: 15 g