Broccoli raisin salad is a delightful way to enjoy a crisp, refreshing, and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for any season. This vegan version transforms the classic salad into a wholesome, plant-based delight that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
The combination of crunchy broccoli florets, sweet plump raisins, and creamy, tangy dressing makes for a perfect harmony that pleases the palate and nourishes the body. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or just looking for a healthy snack, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Making this salad vegan-friendly is simple, without sacrificing any of the taste you love. The dressing uses plant-based ingredients that add creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the natural sweetness of the raisins and the fresh crunch of the broccoli.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Let’s dive into how you can easily whip up this delicious broccoli raisin salad vegan recipe in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broccoli raisin salad vegan recipe is a fantastic blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements that make it irresistibly tasty. It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, thanks to the fresh broccoli and nutrient-rich raisins.
The creamy dressing is entirely plant-based but still rich, providing a luscious coating without any dairy.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize the salad by adding your favorite nuts or seeds for extra crunch or swap out raisins for dried cranberries if you prefer a tart twist.
Moreover, it’s a perfect make-ahead dish, so it’s great for meal prepping or hosting gatherings where you want a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Finally, this salad fits perfectly into a vegan diet but is loved by omnivores too. It’s a beautiful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your routine without feeling like you’re missing out on rich, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup raisins (golden or regular)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for crunch
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl for dressing
- Whisk or fork
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl or container
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Rinse the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the veggies and raisins: Finely dice the red onion and shred the carrots. Add both to the bowl along with the raisins and sunflower seeds or walnuts.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the salad: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir again and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill and serve: For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips & Variations
Try to chop the broccoli finely so it’s easy to eat and blends well with the other ingredients.
For extra texture, you can toast the sunflower seeds or walnuts before adding them to the salad. This step enhances their flavor and crunch.
If you like a bit of zest, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or zest to the dressing. It brightens the salad wonderfully.
For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and substitute with pumpkin seeds or omit seeds altogether.
To add more sweetness, feel free to mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples along with the raisins.
Looking for more vegan recipes? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for delicious plant-based inspiration.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sugars | 10 g (natural sugars from raisins and maple syrup) |
Vitamin C | 70% DV |
Calcium | 6% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli raisin salad makes a perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegan burger for a balanced, nutrient-packed plate.
It also pairs beautifully with grain bowls or as a refreshing salad option at picnics and potlucks. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any table!
If you want to add some protein, sprinkle some cooked chickpeas or your favorite plant-based cheese on top. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Conclusion
This broccoli raisin salad vegan recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s simple to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and bursting with delightful textures and flavors.
Whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based dishes to your meals, this salad offers a fresh, satisfying option that’s both healthy and delicious.
With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a perfect choice for busy home cooks or anyone who enjoys vibrant, nutrient-dense dishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the dressing and add-ins to make it your own.
To further expand your vegan recipe collection, explore more creative dishes such as our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful broccoli raisin salad—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
📖 Recipe Card: Broccoli Raisin Salad Vegan Recipe
Description: A refreshing and crunchy vegan broccoli raisin salad with a tangy dressing. Perfect as a healthy side dish or light lunch.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, raisins, red onion, and shredded carrot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup.
- Pour dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Add toasted sunflower seeds and mix gently.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 22 g
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