If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish to brighten your table, this Roasted Broccoli Salad is the answer. With the robust flavors of charred broccoli, a zesty lemon vinaigrette, and crispy salad toppings, it’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any dinner, this salad can easily complement your Garlic Ginger Chicken or serve as a delightful Broccoli Thanksgiving Side.
This Broccoli Salad Recipe shines with the addition of crispy tempeh bacon, making it a satisfying Big Salad that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply want to indulge in homemade salads, this salad is versatile enough to please everyone at your table. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional Caesar Roasted Broccoli, offering the same deliciousness without the extra calories.
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Vibrant Ingredients for a Fresh Salad
The key to a delightful Roasted Broccoli Salad lies in its vibrant ingredients. Charred broccoli florets serve as the foundation, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the other components perfectly.
Crispy tempeh bacon adds a savory element, enhancing the salad’s depth of flavor while also catering to those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional bacon. Fresh cherry tomatoes introduce a burst of color and juiciness, balancing the earthy notes of the roasted broccoli.
Thinly sliced red onions lend a hint of sharpness, making each bite exciting. This combination not only creates a visually appealing dish but also ensures a medley of textures and tastes that will please everyone at your table.
Preparing the Perfect Salad Base
To achieve the ideal roasted broccoli, preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) is essential. Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. Spreading them out on a baking sheet allows for even roasting, resulting in a deliciously charred finish after 15-20 minutes.
While the broccoli roasts, whip up a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, creating a tangy dressing that will brighten the entire salad. This vinaigrette not only enhances the flavors but also adds a refreshing element to the dish.
Combining Ingredients for a Flavor Explosion
Once the broccoli is perfectly roasted, it’s time to mix everything together. In a large bowl, combine the roasted florets, crumbled tempeh bacon, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzling the lemon vinaigrette over the mixture and tossing gently ensures every ingredient is coated in the tangy goodness.
This step is crucial as it brings all the flavors together, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary salad that will shine on any dining table. Whether served fresh or chilled, this Roasted Broccoli Salad is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
This salad is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to various meals. Pair it with Garlic Ginger Chicken for a satisfying dinner or feature it as a Broccoli Thanksgiving Side that will delight your guests.
It can also stand alone as a main dish for those seeking a light yet filling option. With its vibrant colors and appealing presentation, it works wonderfully as a centerpiece for festive gatherings, ensuring it captures attention and appetites alike.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
Not only does this Roasted Broccoli Salad taste great, but it also comes packed with health benefits. Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall well-being.
The addition of tempeh bacon provides a good source of protein without the extra fat typically found in conventional bacon. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy homemade salads that are both healthy and satisfying.
Final Touches and Variations
To elevate this salad even further, consider adding extra toppings such as toasted nuts or seeds for crunch. These not only enhance the texture but also contribute additional nutrients.
Feel free to experiment with other ingredients as well. Incorporating roasted nuts or even a sprinkle of feta cheese can introduce new flavors, making this Roasted Broccoli Salad a customizable dish that fits various preferences.
A Flavorful and Light Roasted Broccoli Salad
This Roasted Broccoli Salad is bright and refreshing, with a delightful crunch from the charred broccoli. Dressed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, it’s light yet satisfying, making it a perfect side salad for any occasion. The addition of crispy tempeh bacon elevates the flavor profile, adding a savory touch to this healthy dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, roasted
- 1/2 cup tempeh bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until lightly charred and tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine roasted broccoli, tempeh bacon, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Serve fresh or chilled, and enjoy your delicious Roasted Broccoli Salad!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Diet Suitability
| Diet | Explanation / Adjustments |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Suitable as is. The recipe includes plant-based tempeh bacon and no animal-derived ingredients. |
| Gluten-Free | Suitable as is, provided that the tempeh bacon is certified gluten-free. Check packaging to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are used. |
| Vegetarian | Suitable as is. The recipe does not include meat or fish and aligns with vegetarian guidelines. |
| Keto | Not suitable due to the relatively high carbohydrate content from cherry tomatoes and tempeh. To adjust, reduce the cherry tomatoes and substitute tempeh bacon with a lower-carb alternative like coconut bacon. |
| Paleo | Not suitable due to the inclusion of tempeh, which is a processed soy product. To make it suitable, replace tempeh bacon with paleo-friendly bacon or roasted nuts. |
| Whole30 | Not suitable as tempeh is not Whole30 compliant. Substitute tempeh bacon with compliant bacon and ensure Dijon mustard does not contain sugar. |
| Low-FODMAP | Not suitable due to the red onion and tempeh. To adjust, omit the onion and use a low-FODMAP tempeh alternative or replace it with a protein source like grilled chicken or nuts. |
