Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that bursts with flavor and crunch? Look no further than this Garlicky Sesame Cured Broccoli Salad! In just 15 minutes, you can transform simple broccoli into a vibrant, Asian-inspired delight that will have your taste buds dancing. With the perfect balance of savory garlic, nutty sesame oil, and a hint of spice, this salad is not just a side dish—it's a showstopper! Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking for a healthy addition to your meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover how easy it is to create a salad that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Chili flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the broccoli. Rinse the head of broccoli under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for even marination.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the broccoli.
- Add the broccoli florets to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the florets gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the garlicky sauce. Make sure every piece of broccoli is well covered to absorb the flavors.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the broccoli marinate at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the broccoli and enhances its taste.
- After marinating, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added texture and flavor. Adjust the seasoning by adding chili flakes to taste, depending on your preference for heat.
- Serve the garlicky sesame cured broccoli salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or as part of a larger meal. Enjoy the crispness of the broccoli combined with the savory and nutty flavors of the marinade.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, select a fresh head of broccoli with tight, green florets. Avoid any that have yellowing or wilting leaves.
- Uniform Florets: Cut the broccoli into uniform florets to ensure even marination and cooking. This helps each piece absorb the marinade and enhances the overall flavor.
- Marinate Wisely: While 10 minutes is sufficient for marinating at room temperature, feel free to let it sit longer in the refrigerator for even more intense flavor. Just be sure to cover it well.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the chili flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder taste, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired spice level.
- Add Texture: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or even some chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts for a delightful twist.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the broccoli's crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
