Delicious and Nutritious Broccoli Salad Recipe
Broccoli salad is a perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and savory ingredients that make for a delightful side dish or a light meal.
This salad combines the fresh taste of broccoli florets with the sweetness of raisins and the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds.
Shredded carrots and finely diced red onions add a crisp texture, while crumbled bacon provides a savory, smoky note that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The salad is dressed in a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, enhanced with the natural sweetness of honey and the tanginess of white vinegar.
A touch of monk fruit sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness without the calories of regular sugar.
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Salad
Broccoli salad is not only a tasty dish but also a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with ingredients that offer numerous health benefits:
Broccoli: This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, while vitamin K supports bone health. The high fiber content aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Broccoli also contains sulforaphane, a compound that has been studied for its potential to prevent certain types of cancer.
Raisins: These dried fruits are a good source of iron, potassium, and antioxidants. Iron is essential for producing red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health. Antioxidants in raisins help fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Sunflower Seeds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamins E and B6, sunflower seeds contribute to heart health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, while vitamin B6 supports brain health and metabolism.
Shredded Carrots: Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for good vision, a healthy immune system, and proper cell growth. Carrots also contain fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Red Onion: Onions are rich in vitamins C and B6, folate, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants like quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. Regular consumption of onions can help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Bacon: While bacon should be eaten in moderation, it adds protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. Choosing nitrate-free and organic options can make it a healthier choice.
Monk Fruit Sugar (Lankanto): This natural sweetener has zero calories and doesn’t raise blood sugar levels, making it an excellent alternative for those managing diabetes or following a low-carb diet. Monk fruit extract is also rich in antioxidants.
Mayonnaise: Using mayonnaise made with healthy oils, like avocado or olive oil, provides beneficial monounsaturated fats that support heart health. Mayonnaise is also a source of vitamin E.
White Vinegar: Vinegar can help regulate blood sugar levels and has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. It also adds a tangy flavor without adding calories.
Honey: A natural sweetener that offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey also provides trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, making it a better alternative to refined sugar.
Himalayan Sea Salt: Contains trace minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for various bodily functions, including muscle function and hydration.
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Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 8 cups broccoli florets chopped very small
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 lb bacon cooked and then crumbled
- 1/3 cup monk fruit sugar Lankanto
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp Himalayan sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli florets, raisins, sunflower seeds, shredded carrots, and finely diced red onion.
- Add Bacon: Add the crumbled bacon to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the monk fruit sugar, mayonnaise, white vinegar, honey, Himalayan sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Mix Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the vegetables and bacon are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill (Optional): For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the broccoli salad as a side dish or a light meal. Enjoy!
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