Description
Broccoli lovers unite for michael symon’s charred broccoli salad, a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with bold flavors. Crisp florets mingle with tangy feta and crunchy almonds, creating a satisfying side that surprises and delights palates.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 broccoli heads (1 ½ pounds / 680 g)
- 6 Medjool dates, pitted and roughly chopped
- 2 oz (57 g) sharp or aged cheddar, shaved
- ½ cup (60 g) salted Marcona almonds, roughly chopped
- 5 tsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp honey, plus more to taste
- kosher salt
- black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Preparation: Trim the broccoli stalks, removing tough ends and discolored sections. Separate florets from the stem, peel and slice stem lengthwise, and cut crowns into symmetrical segments.
- Seasoning: Generously season broccoli pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Charring: Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, coating the pan surface. Place broccoli cut-side down and roast undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, developing a golden-brown caramelization.
- Searing: Rotate broccoli pieces to briefly sear rounded sides, enhancing flavor depth. Transfer to a cutting board and cool.
- Chopping: Dice cooled broccoli into precise 1/4-inch pieces and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Combining: Fold in finely chopped dates, shaved aged cheddar cheese, and roughly chopped toasted nuts.
- Dressing: Drizzle with honey and remaining olive oil, gently tossing to ensure complete coating.
- Finishing: Taste and adjust seasoning, balancing crisp, sweet, bitter, and tangy flavor profiles.
Notes
- Trim with Precision: Remove tough, fibrous broccoli ends meticulously to ensure tender, enjoyable texture and eliminate any bitter or dry sections.
- Slice Strategically: Cut broccoli into symmetrical halves and segments for even cooking and attractive presentation, guaranteeing consistent caramelization.
- Char with Confidence: Use high heat and cast-iron skillet to develop deep golden-brown caramelization without burning, creating complex flavor layers through controlled roasting.
- Balance Flavor Profiles: Combine sweet dates, sharp aged cheddar, crunchy toasted nuts, and honey to create a harmonious blend of textures and taste sensations that elevate the simple roasted broccoli.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg