Broccoli salad with corn

Fresh broccoli salad with corn: an explosion of color and flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history

Vegetable salads have always been an essential element of a healthy diet, providing not only nutrients but also a vibrant palette of colors and textures. Broccoli, a star ingredient in many kitchens, is appreciated not only for its slightly bitter taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Combined with sweet corn and other fresh vegetables, this salad becomes a perfect choice for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients

- 1 broccoli (approximately 300 g)
- 1 can of corn (approximately 400 g, drained)
- 4 small tomatoes
- 1 slice of smoked Delaco cheese (approximately 100 g)
- 1 slice of cow telemea cheese (approximately 100 g)
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste

Ingredient details

Broccoli: This superfood is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Choose fresh broccoli with dark green florets and crunchy stems for the best texture.

Corn: Use canned corn to save time, but you can also use fresh boiled or frozen corn. Corn adds sweetness and a crunchy texture to the salad.

Tomatoes: Use small, meaty tomatoes for an intense flavor. Cherry or roma tomatoes are ideal due to their natural sweetness.

Cheese and telemea: The smoked cheese adds a rich flavor, while the telemea cheese provides a salty and creamy note. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, according to your preferences.

Olive oil: Choose a high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor and superior nutritional benefits.

Step by step: preparing the salad

1. Preparing the broccoli: Start by cleaning the broccoli, removing the leaves and tougher stems. Break the florets into smaller pieces for even cooking. Rinse well under cold water to remove impurities.

2. Boiling the broccoli: In a medium pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt, enough to cover the broccoli florets. Once the water starts to boil, add the broccoli and let it boil for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes slightly tender but retains a crunchy texture. Check with a fork: if it penetrates easily, the broccoli is ready.

3. Draining and cooling: After boiling, drain the broccoli in a colander and let it cool slightly. This step is important for maintaining a vibrant green color.

4. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, cut the tomatoes into quarters, and the cheese and telemea into cubes. This will help with even distribution of flavors in the salad.

5. Assembling the salad: In a large platter, add the cooled broccoli florets, drained corn, tomato quarters, and cheese cubes. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.

6. Finalizing: Finally, add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt to taste. Mix again to ensure an even coating.

Serving and suggestions

This broccoli corn salad is perfect as a side dish or as a main course for a light meal. You can serve it alongside a portion of grilled meat or fish, but it is also delicious on its own.

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add some toasted nuts or seeds, which will bring a crunchy contrast. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing note.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli is an excellent option. Make sure to boil it according to the instructions on the package.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with grated carrots, bell peppers, or olives to diversify the salad.

3. How can I store the salad?
The salad keeps in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days. However, it is recommended to add the olive oil and salt before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Broccoli is known for its antioxidant properties, while corn provides complex carbohydrates that offer energy. The telemea cheese adds a dose of protein, and olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats.

Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving, depending on the amount of cheese used.

Tips and variations

- For a more intense flavor, try adding a few slices of fresh chili pepper or chili flakes.
- Vary the types of cheese: Experiment with feta or mozzarella to add new textures and flavors.
- Add fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can add extra flavor and freshness.

This broccoli corn salad is not only easy to prepare but also an excellent choice for a quick and healthy meal. Start today by exploring combinations of vegetables and cheeses to create your own delicious recipes! Enjoy every bite and savor the goodness brought by nature!