Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that transforms simple ingredients into a crunchy, flavorful, and nutritious salad. This recipe combines crisp broccoli florets with a tangy dressing, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruit, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option to accompany your main course or a quick salad to enjoy on its own, this broccoli salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this salad is a healthy addition to any meal.
- Crunchy and Flavorful: Combines the natural crunch of broccoli with a variety of textures and flavors.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal cooking required.
- Versatile Dish: Can be served as a side dish, a light main course, or even as part of a potluck spread.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different nuts, dried fruits, and dressings to suit your taste.
What is Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad?
Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Salad is a fresh, crunchy salad featuring raw or lightly blanched broccoli florets, mixed with a tangy dressing, and topped with a variety of flavorful additions like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Other Salad Recipes
Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad Ingredients
- 500g broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 50g toasted nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts)
- 50g dried cranberries or raisins
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint), chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Blanch the Broccoli (Optional): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes, just until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately drain and plunge the broccoli into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well. If you prefer a raw crunch, skip this step and use the broccoli raw.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
- Slice the Onion and Apple: Finely slice the red onion and apple. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the broccoli florets.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the broccoli, onion, and apple. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the salad with toasted nuts, dried cranberries (or raisins), and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss lightly to distribute the toppings.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with Herbs: If desired, garnish the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad
- Grilled Meats: Pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Light Entrée: Serve as a main dish on its own for a healthy, filling meal.
- Barbecue Side: Ideal as a side dish for picnics or barbecues.
- Potluck Favorite: A great addition to any potluck or family gathering.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad
- Blanching Tips: Blanch the broccoli for just 1-2 minutes if you prefer a slightly tender texture, but it’s also delicious raw for a crunchier bite.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste by adding more vinegar or mustard for extra tang.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time, but add the nuts and cheese just before serving to keep them crisp.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad
- Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, bacon, or chickpeas for a more substantial salad.
- Change the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Sweet Touch: Add sliced grapes or fresh pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours of preparation.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad Leftovers?
- Serve Cold or at Room Temperature: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary.
- Freshen Up: If needed, add a little extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Should I blanch the broccoli for Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad?
Blanching the broccoli for Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad is optional. Blanching for 1-2 minutes gives the broccoli a slightly tender texture while preserving its bright color. However, if you prefer a crunchier salad, you can skip blanching and use raw broccoli.
Can I make Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad ahead of time. It’s best to prepare the salad a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. However, add the nuts and cheese just before serving to keep them crisp.
How long does Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?
Broccoli Salad can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it within a few hours of preparation.
What can I add to Broccoli Salad for extra flavor?
You can add ingredients like bacon, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor of the Broccoli Salad.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of fresh broccoli, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors that this recipe offers!
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Tomato And Feta Salad
- Jamie Oliver Three Bean Salad
- Jamie Oliver Carrot And Orange
- Jamie Oliver Panzanella Salad
Jamie Oliver Broccoli Salad
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 2
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching (optional) and Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that transforms simple ingredients into a crunchy, flavorful, and nutritious salad. This recipe combines crisp broccoli florets with a tangy dressing, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruit, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option to accompany your main course or a quick salad to enjoy on its own, this broccoli salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
-
- 500g broccoli, cut into small florets
-
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
-
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced
-
- 50g toasted nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts)
-
- 50g dried cranberries or raisins
-
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
-
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
-
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
-
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
-
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint), chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
-
- Blanch the Broccoli (Optional): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes, just until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately drain and plunge the broccoli into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well. If you prefer a raw crunch, skip this step and use the broccoli raw.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
-
- Slice the Onion and Apple: Finely slice the red onion and apple. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the broccoli florets.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
-
- Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
-
- Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the broccoli, onion, and apple. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
-
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the salad with toasted nuts, dried cranberries (or raisins), and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss lightly to distribute the toppings.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
-
- Garnish with Herbs: If desired, garnish the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added flavor and freshness.
-
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.