Looking for a quick, nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavor? Dive into the vibrant world of our Broccoli White Bean Salad! This delightful recipe not only packs a punch with its fresh ingredients but also comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering, this salad is a delicious way to incorporate more greens and protein into your diet. Trust us, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your menu!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Drain and rinse the white beans in a colander to remove excess sodium and preservatives.
- In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. This process helps to preserve their color and nutrients.
- After blanching, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool for a few minutes, then drain and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli florets, drained white beans, and diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine them evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and bean mixture. Toss everything together until the salad is well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This can be done at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your broccoli white bean salad!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, select bright green broccoli florets that are firm and free from yellowing. Freshness makes a significant difference in taste!
- Blanching Technique: Don’t skip the blanching step! It not only enhances the color of the broccoli but also helps retain its nutrients. Just remember to plunge it into ice water immediately after cooking to lock in that vibrant green hue.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with the dressing! Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
- Add More Veggies: This salad is versatile! Consider adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
- Serve It Right: This salad is great as a side dish, but it can also shine as a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.Enjoy your culinary adventure with this refreshing Broccoli White Bean Salad!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 159kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
