Caesar Broccoli Salad

broccoli caesar winter Jan 14, 2026
 

Ingredients

Broccoli

  • 1 head broccoli

  • Ice-cold water (for blanching stop)

Vegan Caesar Dressing

  • ½ cup sunflower seeds

  • 1 clove garlic

  • 1–2 tbsp capers

  • 1 tbsp caper brine

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 3–4 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • Pinch of salt

  • 1 strip lemon zest

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • 1–2 tbsp white wine vinegar

  • ~1 cup water (adjust for texture)

Optional Garnish / Add-ins

  • Crispy onions

  • Toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds


Method

  1. Prep the broccoli
    Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.

  2. Blanch
    Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil.
    Blanch the broccoli for 3–5 minutes, depending on how al dente you like it.

  3. Shock & dry
    Transfer immediately to ice-cold water to stop the cooking.
    Drain very well, preferably using a salad spinner, until the broccoli is completely dry.

  4. Make the dressing
    Add all dressing ingredients to a blender.
    Blend until very smooth and creamy.
    Taste and adjust: more lemon or vinegar for acidity, more salt, garlic, or capers if needed.

  5. Assemble
    Place the dry broccoli in a mixing bowl.
    Add the dressing and toss until evenly coated.

  6. Finish
    Fold in crispy onions or toasted nuts/seeds if using.


To Serve

Serve immediately or let it sit for 10–15 minutes for the flavors to settle.
Rustic, simple, and deeply savory — works warm or cold.

When you’re ready, we can refine variations or move on to the next recipe.

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