Get ready for a culinary adventure with this unique salad that's a feast for both your taste buds and your brain! A mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors awaits!
This salad is a true sensory experience, offering a delightful contrast of creamy, crunchy, and chewy elements. Imagine the burst of sweetness from the grapes, perfectly balanced by the tangy kick of cranberries. And here's the real star: broccoli, a powerhouse ingredient that not only adds a satisfying crunch but also packs a punch of antioxidants and vitamin K, giving your brain a healthy boost with every bite.
But here's where it gets controversial: this salad is so satisfying, you might just want to make it a meal! Pair it with grilled chicken or crispy tofu for a complete, nutritious feast. It's a versatile dish that can be a side or a main course, depending on your preference.
And this is the part most people miss: the dressing is key! A simple yet creamy blend of mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, it ties all the flavors together. The dressing is generously seasoned with salt and pepper, ensuring a well-rounded taste.
Now, let's dive into the ingredients:
- Risoni pasta (330g or 1½ cups) - a perfect base for the salad, offering a chewy texture.
- Broccoli (1 head) - finely chopped stems and florets provide that satisfying crunch.
- Red onion (1 small) - very finely diced to add a subtle sweetness and a hint of sharpness.
- Red grapes (1 cup, halved) - a burst of juicy sweetness.
- Dried cranberries (⅔ cup, roughly chopped) - a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- Almonds or pine nuts (½ cup, toasted and roughly chopped) - a crunchy, nutty addition.
For the creamy dressing:
- Mayonnaise (2 tbsp)
- Greek or natural yogurt (1 cup)
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp)
- Lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the risoni and cook until al dente (around 8 minutes). Be careful not to overcook it, as it can lose its chewy texture.
- Step 2: Prepare the dressing by adding all the ingredients to a large screw-top jar and shaking well. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, risoni, onion, grapes, cranberries, and chopped nuts. If the risoni is sticky, give it a quick rinse with cold water before adding. Just before serving, pour in the creamy dressing and toss well to coat everything evenly. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
And there you have it! A delicious, brain-boosting salad that's sure to impress. Now, the big question: would you serve this as a side or a main course? And what's your take on the dressing? Let's spark a discussion in the comments!
