The Best Broccoli Wedge Salad With Crispy Toppings And Fresh Basil Dressing

This Broccoli Wedge Salad is a fresh and exciting twist on the classic wedge salad.

Instead of traditional iceberg lettuce, this recipe uses roasted broccoli wedges topped with a delicious basil vinaigrette, crispy toppings, and fresh ingredients.

The broccoli becomes beautifully caramelized on the outside while staying tender inside, creating a salad full of flavour, texture, and colour.

Perfect as a healthy side dish, a light lunch, or an impressive addition to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Wedge Salad

This recipe transforms simple broccoli into a restaurant-quality salad.

You will love it because:

• It is packed with flavour
• Roasted broccoli creates crispy golden edges
• Homemade basil dressing adds freshness
• Easy ingredients create an impressive dish
• Perfect for meal prep
• Works as a side dish or a complete meal

Unlike ordinary broccoli salads, this version has a beautiful presentation and incredible texture.

A Fresh Twist On The Classic Wedge Salad

Traditional wedge salads are usually made with iceberg lettuce, creamy dressing, and toppings.

This version replaces lettuce with large roasted broccoli wedges.

Keeping the broccoli pieces large allows them to:

• Hold their shape
• Develop caramelized edges
• Absorb the dressing
• Create a beautiful presentation

The result is a modern vegetable salad that feels fresh, satisfying, and unique.

Ingredients In Broccoli Wedge Salad

1. The Broccoli Wedges

For the roasted broccoli base:

• 2 large broccoli heads
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika (optional)

2. Basil Vinaigrette Dressing

For the fresh homemade dressing:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Salt
• Black pepper

Optional Toppings

Customize your salad with:

• Crispy bacon
• Parmesan cheese
• Cherry tomatoes
• Toasted almonds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Red onion
• Fresh herbs
• Feta cheese

How To Make Broccoli Salad

1. Make The Basil Vinaigrette

Add basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper into a blender.

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

2. Roast The Broccoli Wedges

Preheat your oven.

Cut broccoli heads into large wedges while keeping the stem attached.

Place them on a baking tray.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Roast until golden brown with crispy edges.

3. Assemble The Salad

Arrange roasted broccoli wedges on a serving plate.

Drizzle with basil vinaigrette.

Add your favourite toppings:

• Crispy bacon
• Parmesan
• Tomatoes
• Nuts
• Fresh herbs

Serve immediately.

How To Serve Broccoli Wedge Salad

This salad is perfect for many occasions.

As A Side Dish

Serve it with:

• Grilled chicken
• Steak
• Roasted salmon
• Burgers
• Barbecue dishes

As A Main Meal

Add protein:

• Chicken breast
• Boiled eggs
• Chickpeas
• Tofu
• Salmon

For Special Occasions

The beautiful wedge presentation makes it perfect for:

• Dinner parties
• Family gatherings
• Holiday meals

Tips For The Perfect Broccoli Wedge Salad

Keep The Stem Attached

The stem keeps the broccoli wedges together during roasting.

Roast At High Heat

High temperature creates better caramelization and flavour.

Do Not Add Dressing Too Early

Add the dressing just before serving to keep the broccoli texture perfect.

Prepare Ahead

The dressing can be made several days before serving.

FAQ – Broccoli Wedge Salad

Why Cut Broccoli Into Large Wedges Instead Of Florets?

Large wedges create a beautiful presentation and allow the broccoli to roast properly while keeping a tender centre.

Can I Use Raw Broccoli Instead Of Roasting It?

Yes.

Raw broccoli creates a crunchy salad, but roasting gives a deeper flavour and sweeter taste.

What Can I Use Instead Of Bacon?

Good alternatives include:

• Crispy chickpeas
• Toasted nuts
• Seeds
• Crispy onions
• Smoked tofu

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes.

Prepare the dressing and roast the broccoli separately.

Combine everything just before serving.

How Long Does Broccoli Salad Last?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keep the dressing separate for the best texture.

Watch How To Make Broccoli Wedge Salad

Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare basil vinaigrette
2. Roast broccoli wedges
3. Add toppings
4. Serve with dressing

Broccoli Wedge Salad Recipe

Ingredients

Broccoli Salad

• 2 large broccoli heads
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Basil Vinaigrette (Makes ½ Cup)

• 1 cup fresh basil
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper

Garnish

• Bacon
• Parmesan
• Tomatoes
• Nuts
• Fresh herbs

Instructions

Quick Recipe Overview

1. Blend the basil vinaigrette.
2. Roast broccoli wedges.
3. Add toppings.
4. Serve.

Full Recipe

Step 1

Prepare the basil vinaigrette.

Step 2

Roast seasoned broccoli wedges until golden.

Step 3

Arrange broccoli and add toppings.

Step 4

Drizzle with dressing and serve.

Recipe Notes

• Choose fresh broccoli heads.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking tray.
• Adjust toppings according to your taste.
• Add protein for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 6g