Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Recipe: A Copycat Version with a Twist

The Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Recipe: A Beloved Favorite

For years, the Panera Bread Broccoli Salad has been a staple on the menu, and its popularity endures. This copycat recipe allows you to recreate the magic at home, using fresh ingredients and a few clever tricks. The result is a delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special events.

The key to this broccoli salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. With a mix of crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, and tangy cheese, this salad is a masterclass in contrasts. By following this Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the same great taste in the comfort of your own home.

• 240 g / 1 cup broccoli florets, fresh and crisp
• 120 g / 1/2 cup dried cranberries, sweet and chewy
• 115 g / 1/2 cup mayonnaise, the perfect binder

With these simple ingredients and a bit of know-how, you’ll be on your way to creating a truly unforgettable broccoli salad. So why wait? Dive in and discover the secrets behind this beloved favorite.

Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Recipe

This copycat recipe brings the beloved Panera Bread Broccoli Salad right to your kitchen! Packed with fresh broccoli florets, crunchy almonds, and a creamy dressing, it’s the perfect healthy side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup broccoli florets
• 120 g / ½ cup dried cranberries
• 120 g / ½ cup slivered almonds
• 120 g / 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Dressing:
• 120 ml / ½ cup mayonnaise
• 60 ml / ¼ cup sour cream
• 30 ml / 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 15 ml / 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, cranberries, almonds, and shredded cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Serving Size: 4-6 servings

Ingredients for Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

This Panera Bread-inspired broccoli salad is a delightful combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet red onions, and tangy dressing. Gather these essential ingredients to create the authentic taste of Panera’s signature salad.

For the best results, use high-quality ingredients and follow the exact measurements to replicate the original recipe.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 head of broccoli, trimmed and cut into florets (240 g / 1 cup)
• 1 cup of red onion, thinly sliced (115 g)
• 1 cup of crumbled blue cheese (115 g)
• 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (60 g)
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise (60 ml / 2 fl oz)
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard (30 ml)
• 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar (15 ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (15 g)
• 1/4 cup of dried cranberries (30 g)
• 1/4 cup of chopped pecans (30 g)

Remember to store the broccoli in the refrigerator to keep it fresh before using it in the salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

To create the perfect broccoli salad, follow these detailed instructions from preparation to serving, ensuring a delicious and healthy dish every time.

This Panera Bread copycat recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner.

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F and roast 120 g / 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for 10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned, to add crunch to the salad.
2. Cook 240 g / 1 cup of bacon until crispy, which should take about 12-15 minutes at 180°C / 350°F, then set aside to cool completely before crumbling into the salad.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil at 100°C / 212°F, then blanch 400 g / 3 cups of broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp, before immediately plunging into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together 120 ml / 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 60 ml / 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 15 ml / 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 15 ml / 1 tablespoon of honey until smooth and creamy, which will serve as the base of the salad dressing.
5. Add 60 g / 1/4 cup of chopped red onion, 60 g / 1/4 cup of diced apple, and 30 g / 1/4 cup of crumbled bacon to the bowl with the dressing, stirring until all the ingredients are well combined.
6. Drain the broccoli florets from the ice bath and add them to the bowl, tossing gently to coat the broccoli with the dressing and mix in the other ingredients.
7. Sprinkle the roasted nuts over the top of the salad and toss again to distribute evenly, ensuring every bite has a satisfying crunch.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad at 4°C / 39°F for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to absorb the dressing.
9. Just before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more mayonnaise, mustard, or honey to taste.
10. Serve the broccoli salad chilled, garnished with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of dried cranberries if desired, making for a beautiful and delicious presentation.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious and healthy broccoli salad that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

Ready to elevate your homemade Panera Bread Broccoli Salad? Here are some insider tips to ensure it’s as delicious and satisfying as the original:

Broccoli Bliss

1. Fresh is Best: Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overcooked or wilted broccoli, as it will make the salad soggy.
2. Blanch Briefly: Blanching the broccoli for 2-3 minutes in boiling water followed by an ice bath helps retain its vibrant green color and crispness.

Creamy Dressing Secrets

• Tangy Mayo: Use full-fat mayonnaise for a richer, creamier dressing.
• Vinegar Variety: A combination of white wine vinegar and apple cider vinegar adds a balanced tanginess. Adjust the ratio to your preference.
• Sweet and Savory: A touch of sugar and Dijon mustard rounds out the flavors and creates a harmonious balance.

Flavor Boosters

Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients to enhance the flavor profile:

• Toasted Almonds: For a nutty crunch, toast slivered almonds in a dry skillet until fragrant.
• Dried Cranberries: Add a touch of sweetness and tartness with dried cranberries.
• Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds a savory note.

Get Creative with Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Substitutions and Variations

Transform this beloved salad into a unique creation that suits your taste preferences. Explore these alternatives to make it your own.

Protein Options

• Replace chicken with 120g / 4 oz of cooked salmon for a omega-3 boost, adding a 30g / 2 oz serving to the salad.
• Swap chicken for 120g / 4 oz of cooked turkey, adjusting the seasoning to balance the flavor.

Crunchy Additions

• Add 60g / 2 oz of toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch, with a flavor profile that complements the broccoli.
• Substitute 60g / 2 oz of crispy prosciutto for a salty, savory twist.

Flavor Enhancers

• Replace the mayonnaise with 30g / 2 tbsp of Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
• Infuse the salad with 15g / 1 tsp of Dijon mustard for an added depth of flavor.

Creative Variations for Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

Take the classic Panera Bread Broccoli Salad to the next level with these innovative variations. By mixing and matching ingredients, you can create unique and delicious broccoli salad versions to suit your taste.

• Lemon Rosemary Variation: Add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary to the original recipe. This variation reduces preparation time by 5 minutes and adds a bright, herby flavor.
• Spicy Southwestern Variation: Mix in 1/4 cup of diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, and 1-2 teaspoons of diced jalapeño. This variation increases preparation time by 10 minutes and adds a spicy kick.
• Asian-Style Variation: Replace mayonnaise with 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1/4 cup of chopped scallions. This variation reduces preparation time by 5 minutes and adds a savory, umami flavor.

These variations offer a range of flavor profiles and textures to enhance the classic Panera Bread Broccoli Salad. Feel free to experiment and combine ingredients to create your perfect broccoli salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

Once you’ve made this delicious copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Salad, you’ll want to make sure it stays fresh and flavorful. Follow these simple storage and reheating instructions to keep your salad at its best.

Storage

1. Transfer the cooled broccoli salad to an airtight container.
2. Store the container in the refrigerator.
3. The broccoli salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

While this salad is delicious cold, you can reheat it if desired. Reheating will soften the broccoli slightly and warm the dressing.

1. Remove the broccoli salad from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
3. Pour the broccoli salad into an oven-safe dish.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to slightly crisp.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

Get back on track with this helpful guide to resolving common problems that can arise when making Panera Bread’s popular broccoli salad.

Solutions for Soggy Broccoli

• Soggy broccoli: If your broccoli florets are too wet, it may be due to over-dressing or excess moisture from the dressing ingredients. Try pat-drying the broccoli with a paper towel before dressing it.
• Insufficient drying time: Make sure to let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broccoli to dry slightly.

Balancing Flavors and Texture

• Overpowering flavors: If the dressing overpowers the other ingredients, try reducing the amount of dressing or adding more broccoli to balance the flavors.
• Insufficient crunch: If the salad lacks crunch, try adding more chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds.

Other Common Issues

• Incorrect temperature: If the salad is too warm, try refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes to chill. If it’s too cold, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
• Off flavors: If the salad has an off or sour taste, check the expiration dates of the ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and cheese.

Nutrition Information for Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

This recipe makes 6 servings, with each serving containing approximately 170 calories, 12g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein.

• Calories per serving: 170
• Macronutrient breakdown: 12g fat, 10g carbohydrates, 5g protein

This Panera Bread Broccoli Salad copycat is gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting the cheese. However, it is not suitable for a vegan diet due to the presence of animal-derived ingredients.

Key Takeaways from Making Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

Transform your salad game with these expert tips and techniques for creating a delicious Panera Bread-inspired broccoli salad.

• Choose the right broccoli: Opt for a mix of tender, crisp florets and stems for added texture and flavor.
• Don’t over-dress: Start with a light hand when adding the tangy dressing, as you can always add more but it’s harder to remove excess.
• Balance flavors: Combine the sweetness of red onion, the tanginess of apple cider vinegar, and the richness of mayonnaise for a harmonious taste experience.
• Add a crunch: Introduce some satisfying texture with chopped walnuts or pecans for added depth and interest.
• Chill and serve: Allow the salad to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to soften slightly.

By following these key takeaways, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Panera Bread-worthy broccoli salad that’s both healthy and delicious.

Author’s Notes and Acknowledgments

The Panera Bread Broccoli Salad Recipe was inspired by the popular restaurant chain’s fresh and healthy offerings. To recreate this beloved dish, extensive research and testing were conducted to ensure the final product was both authentic and delicious.

The process involved analyzing various broccoli salad recipes, identifying key ingredients and flavor profiles, and making adjustments to achieve the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. A crucial aspect of this recipe is the use of high-quality ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of fresh broccoli florets and 120 g / 1/2 cup of crumbled cheddar cheese.

The dressing, made with 60 ml / 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and 30 ml / 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, is a vital component of the salad. It is recommended to chill the dressing in the refrigerator at 4°C / 39°F for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

• Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the amount of dressing to taste.
• Chill the salad in the refrigerator at 4°C / 39°F for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy Your Delicious Panera Bread Broccoli Salad

There’s something truly satisfying about whipping up a healthy and flavorful dish like this Panera Bread Broccoli Salad. It’s a taste of sunshine in every bite, perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a refreshing snack.

We hope you enjoy this copycat recipe as much as we do! Want to explore more Panera-inspired creations? Check out our other copycat recipes for classics like the Chicken Noodle Soup and Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich.