Title: Vegan Creamy Broccoli Salad: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Favorite

Introduction: Revitalize your salad game with our Vegan Creamy Broccoli Salad, a tantalizing blend of crisp broccoli florets, colorful veggies, and a luscious dairy-free dressing. Bursting with flavor and nutrients, this salad is a perfect addition to any meal or as a standalone dish. Whether you’re vegan, plant-based, or simply looking to incorporate more veggies into your diet, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s delve into the details of creating this vibrant and delicious salad sensation.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup of shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup of diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
  • For the creamy dressing:
    • 1/2 cup of vegan mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of choice)
    • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon of maple syrup (or preferred sweetener)
    • 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Begin by preparing the broccoli florets. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Trim any tough stems and cut the florets into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded carrots, diced red onion, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, unsweetened almond milk, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
  4. Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
  5. Once the salad is well coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to marinate in the dressing.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. Transfer the Vegan Creamy Broccoli Salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with additional chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for an extra pop of color and texture, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 4g

Smart WW Points: 5 per serving

Conclusion: In conclusion, our Vegan Creamy Broccoli Salad offers a delightful combination of crunchy textures, vibrant colors, and creamy dressing that is both satisfying and nourishing. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this salad not only pleases the palate but also supports overall health and wellness. Whether enjoyed as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing snack, this versatile salad is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Embrace the goodness of plant-based eating with our Vegan Creamy Broccoli Salad and elevate your dining experience to new heights of flavor and freshness.