Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad

Whenever I think of spring, the first dish that comes to my mind is a vibrant and refreshing Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad. It’s the kind of salad that brightens up any meal with its delightful crunch and bursts of flavor. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was hosting a small gathering in my backyard, and I wanted something that combined fresh ingredients and a touch of elegance. As I chopped the bright green broccoli and vibrant radishes, I could already imagine the smiles on my friends’ faces when they tasted it. This salad serves as a perfect balance of creamy and crisp, making it ideal for both casual lunches and festive dinners.

All the elements of this salad come together beautifully, especially with the addition of the rich blue cheese dressing and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Each bite delivers a burst of freshness and flavor that leaves you wanting more. I often find myself preparing this salad for picnics or as a side for grilled meats, and it never fails to impress. The best part? It’s simple to make, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the company rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

So whether you’re looking to spice up your meal prep or simply want to enjoy a refreshing dish, the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is a fantastic choice. You might even find it becoming a staple in your household, just like it is in mine!

Main Ingredients for Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad

The ingredients in the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad are what really make this dish shine. Each component plays a vital role in contributing not only to the flavor but also to the texture and visual appeal of the salad. The combination of broccoli and radishes provides a delightful crunch while the blue cheese dressing and Gorgonzola cheese add a creamy richness that balances the freshness perfectly.

• Broccoli: 6 cups of broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces offer a hearty base filled with vitamins and minerals, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
• Radishes: 2 cups of radishes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick contribute a nice peppery flavor and a vibrant color that enhances the overall presentation of the salad.
• Blue Cheese Salad Dressing: 1/4 cup of blue cheese dressing, more or less to taste, is the star of the show, providing a creamy and tangy element that ties all the flavors together.
• Gorgonzola Cheese: 1/4 cup of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and a rich texture to the salad.
• Salt and Pepper: Using fresh ground salt and pepper to taste enhances all the flavors, ensuring that the broccoli and radishes shine.

Putting Together Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad

Creating the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is as enjoyable as eating it! The steps are simple and straightforward. Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious and nutritious salad that will surely impress your guests.

1. Start by preparing the broccoli. Trim any long stems and cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial since you want each piece to be easy to eat and to absorb the dressing beautifully. Take a moment to enjoy the fresh green color and crisp texture of the broccoli.
2. Next, wash the radishes. Trim off the ends and slice them into 1/4 inch slices. The sharp crunch and slight spice of the radishes will add great contrast to the creamy elements of the salad.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine your desired amount of blue cheese dressing with a splash of buttermilk if you’re using that tip. This step can elevate the dressing, making it lighter and creamier. Adjust it according to your taste preference, keeping in mind that you can always add more dressing later.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli and sliced radishes. Toss them gently to mix, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the dressing. You might want to take a quick moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and fresh aroma they give off.
5. Now, add the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. This adds depth and richness to your salad. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the cheese doesn’t crumble too much but is evenly distributed.
6. Season your salad with fresh ground salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavors of the fresh ingredients, making every bite exciting and delicious.
7. At this point, the salad is ready, but I recommend letting it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep in mind that this salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it soon after preparing.
8. If you’re only serving a few people, it’s a great idea to prep all the broccoli and radishes ahead of time and dress only what you’ll eat right away. The leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for a day or so, retaining their crunch.
9. Finally, enjoy your stunning creation! Serve the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad as a side dish or a light meal, and watch as everyone enjoys this refreshing and delightful salad.

Change It Up

There’s always room to customize the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad! Here are some tips to help you make it your own.

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The dressing can make the broccoli and radishes soggy if left too long.
• Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad as it’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the broccoli and radishes.
• Pairing: This salad goes wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. It complements barbecue flavors beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for additional crunch. You can also mix in some nuts for added flavor and texture.
• Serving Size: Adjust the ingredient quantities based on how many people you’re serving, and consider making a larger batch for gatherings.

Accompaniments for Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad

Serving the Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is a wonderful opportunity to create a complete meal. Here are some great ideas on how to enjoy this dish:

• Grilled Chicken: Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Steak: The richness of a juicy steak pairs beautifully with the creamy notes of the blue cheese dressing.
• Vegetarian Option: Serve it alongside a hearty grain dish, like quinoa or farro, for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Picnic Perfect: The Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is perfect for picnics! Pack it up in a cooler along with some bread and cheeses for a delightful outdoor feast.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge for a quick meal or snack. Just remember to keep any extra dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it!
• Seasonal Pairings: This salad shines in spring when broccoli and radishes are at their freshest. Serve it during spring gatherings or barbecues for a refreshing side.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its combination of crunchy broccoli and zesty radishes brings a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing, making it a favorite among both salad lovers and newcomers alike. I encourage you to try making this salad for your next gathering or simply as a light meal to enjoy at home. You won’t be disappointed!

Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad

The vibrant Blue Cheese Broccoli Radish Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy broccoli and zesty radishes with a creamy blue cheese dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad brings together rich flavors and fresh ingredients for an easy, nutritious side. Try it tonight and elevate your meal!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups Broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups Radishes sliced about 1/4 inch thick
• 1/4 cup Blue Cheese Salad Dressing more or less to taste
• 1/4 cup Gorgonzola Cheese crumbled
• Salt to taste
• Fresh Ground Pepper to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Trim long broccoli stems and cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
2. Wash radishes, trim off ends, and slice into 1/4 inch slices.
3. Mix blue cheese dressing with buttermilk if you’re using my tip below, or measure out the desired amount of blue cheese dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and radishes. Toss with blue cheese dressing.
5. Add the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, season with salt and fresh ground pepper, and toss again.
6. This will keep in the fridge for a day or so, although it’s better the day it’s made.
7. If you're only serving a few people, prep all the broccoli and radishes; then only put dressing on the amount you'll eat right away. You can add dressing to the leftovers for another salad later in the week.

Notes

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The dressing can make the broccoli and radishes soggy if left too long.
• Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad as it’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the broccoli and radishes.
• Pairing: This salad goes wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. It complements barbecue flavors beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for additional crunch. You can also mix in some nuts for added flavor and texture.
• Serving Size: Adjust the ingredient quantities based on how many people you’re serving, and consider making a larger batch for gatherings.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.