What dressing do you put in broccoli salad?

Traditionally, broccoli salads use creamy dressings made with mayonnaise and vinegar. However, for a fresher, more dynamic flavor, a peanut sauce dressing is an excellent alternative. Made from creamy peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey or agave, it adds depth, nuttiness, and a balanced sweet-savory profile that complements broccoli beautifully. This dressing also works well in vegetarian and gluten-free diets with a few simple swaps.

Does peanut butter go well with broccoli?

Yes—surprisingly well. The mild bitterness and crisp texture of broccoli contrast perfectly with the smooth richness of peanut butter-based sauces . When blended with tangy and umami ingredients like soy sauce and vinegar, the peanut flavor enhances the broccoli instead of overpowering it. It also adds creaminess that sticks to the florets, making each bite deeply satisfying.

What can you mix with peanut sauce?

Peanut sauce is highly versatile. Beyond broccoli, you can mix it with noodles, grilled vegetables, tofu, or shredded chicken . It also pairs beautifully with grain bowls featuring quinoa, rice, or farro. You can use it as a dip for spring rolls or a dressing for slaws. Its sweet, salty, and tangy profile makes it an excellent complement to both raw and cooked ingredients.

What is the difference between satay sauce and peanut sauce?

Though often used interchangeably, there's a difference. Peanut sauce is a general term for sauces made primarily from peanut butter and often includes soy sauce, vinegar, and sweeteners. Satay sauce , a variant popular in Southeast Asia, usually contains similar ingredients but is traditionally served with grilled skewered meats and may include more spice, coconut milk, or curry elements. In essence, satay sauce is a type of peanut sauce tailored for grilled dishes.

Broccoli Salad with Peanut Sauce – 5 Bold, Healthy Reasons to Try

Description

Broccoli Salad with Peanut Sauce is the ultimate blend of flavor and nutrition. Discover how to make this bold, creamy, and healthy salad today.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 cup cooked, shelled edamame
- 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce if needed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
- 1/8 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 to 2 tablespoons hot water, to adjust consistency

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Blanch the Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 30 seconds. Immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking. Drain well.
Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, edamame, green onions, and peanuts.
Make the Peanut Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or agave), and sesame oil. Slowly add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Combine:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.