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| Vegan Broccoli Salad Recipe |
Creamy Vegan Broccoli Salad Recipe – Easy & Delicious
Looking for the ultimate Vegan Broccoli Salad that’s as healthy as it is delicious? This easy, plant-based side dish comes together in just minutes and combines crunchy broccoli florets, a tangy vegan mayo dressing, and a medley of colorful veggies for a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for meal prep or summer barbecues, this Vegan Broccoli Salad is packed with fiber, vitamins, and creamy goodness—guaranteed to impress vegans and non-vegans alike!
Ingredients for the Best Vegan Broccoli Salad
To make this flavorful and healthy Vegan Broccoli Salad, you’ll need a few simple, plant-based ingredients:
- Vegan mayonnaise – Find it near the regular mayo or in the natural foods aisle. Hellmann's Vegan Mayo is a great option.
- Organic sugar – Keeps the recipe fully vegan, as some conventional sugars are processed with animal products.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds tangy depth to the dressing. You can substitute with white vinegar or red wine vinegar if preferred.
- Fresh raw broccoli – The star of the salad! Use crisp, bite-sized florets for the best texture.
- Red onion – Adds a sharp, savory contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Raisins – For natural sweetness. You can swap in dried cranberries or cherries if desired.
- Roasted sunflower seeds – Choose salted seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Smoked almonds – Make sure they’re vegan! Many brands contain butter or gelatin. Blue Diamond Smokehouse Almonds are a safe and tasty choice.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste to bring all the flavors together.
How to Make Vegan Broccoli Salad
Start by preparing the creamy dressing for your Vegan Broccoli Salad. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, organic sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Make sure to stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing becomes smooth and creamy.
Next, add the fresh broccoli florets, raisins, smoked almonds, and roasted sunflower seeds to the bowl. If you soaked your red onion beforehand to reduce its sharpness, drain it thoroughly and add it to the salad.
Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated with the rich, tangy dressing.
Now, give your Vegan Broccoli Salad a taste. Season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also tweak the flavor by adding a bit more vinegar for extra tang or a little more sugar for added sweetness.
You can serve the salad right away, but for the best flavor and texture, cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making your Vegan Broccoli Salad even more delicious.
Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftover Vegan Broccoli Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh, crisp, and flavorful for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir to revive its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Vegan Broccoli Salad
Can I make Vegan Broccoli Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Vegan Broccoli Salad actually tastes even better when made a few hours ahead. Letting it chill in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare it up to a day in advance for the best results.
How do I keep my Vegan Broccoli Salad from getting soggy?
To keep your Vegan Broccoli Salad fresh and crunchy, make sure to use completely dry broccoli florets. Also, avoid overmixing and add the dressing just before serving if you plan to store it for longer than a few hours.
What can I substitute for vegan mayonnaise?
If you don't have vegan mayo, you can substitute it with mashed avocado, a vegan yogurt alternative, or even a simple tahini-based dressing to keep your Vegan Broccoli Salad creamy and plant-based.
Can I make this Vegan Broccoli Salad nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply skip the smoked almonds and use extra sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. This way, you’ll still enjoy plenty of crunch without any nuts.
How long does Vegan Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, Vegan Broccoli Salad can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to stir it gently before serving to refresh the flavors and texture.
