Blueberry Broccoli Salad with Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette (allergy friendly)
Blueberry Broccoli Salad Recipe with Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette
Introduction
Looking for a delightful salad recipe to enjoy during these hot summer days? This Blueberry Broccoli Salad with a twist of Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette is just what you need. It’s hot outside so I’m always looking for different cool salads to add to my summer dinner rotation. I had enough blueberries and just harvested my carrots so what better way to use these ingredients than Blueberry Broccoli Salad. I was inspired by a Facebook post from Yummy Satisfy.
Of course, I changed up the recipes due to my food allergies but thought I would share my version with you including my yummy and easy blueberry vinaigrette.
Ingredients
To whip up this vibrant salad, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- Feta cheese (optional)
- Almonds (substitute for pecans if you’re allergic)
Preparation
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and shred the carrots.
- Combine the broccoli, shredded carrots, blueberries, finely chopped red onion, bacon crumbles, and dried cranberries in a large mixing bowl.
- Customize Your Ingredients:
- Adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences. For example, use almonds instead of pecans or skip the cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette
Create a tangy dressing to complement the salad:
- Juice of one lemon
- Zest from one lemon (approximately 2 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Blend the Dressing:
- Use an immersion blender to combine the blueberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well mixed.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your liking. The dressing should have a delightful tanginess from the lemon and vinegar yet sweetness from the fresh blueberries.
Assembly
- Combine and Toss:
- Drizzle the Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the salad immediately as a light and refreshing meal or side dish.
- Store any remaining dressing in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Tips for Serving
- Customize to Please Everyone: If catering to picky eaters, consider serving the dressing on the side or adjusting the ingredients to suit individual tastes.
- Enhance Your Salad: Experiment with additional ingredients such as sweet corn or different cheeses for added flavor and variety.
What Do Y’all Think?
This Blueberry Broccoli Salad with Lemon Blueberry Vinaigrette isn’t just tasty; it’s also a healthy choice that can accommodate various dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed at a summer picnic or as a quick dinner option, it promises to bring a burst of fresh flavors to your table. Give it a try and let the natural goodness of garden-fresh ingredients elevate your mealtime experience!