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When the summer heat hits and you want something fresh, crunchy, and a little bit indulgent, this Caesar Broccoli Salad is the move. It’s everything you love about a classic Caesar, but with a hearty twist thanks to crisp, raw broccoli and golden, garlicky breadcrumbs. It’s easy enough for a weekday lunch and just special enough to bring to your next cookout.
Why I Love This Recipe
This salad is everything I love in a salad: crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and totally satisfying. The broccoli stays crisp-tender without any cooking (which makes this a no-oven win!), and the Caesar dressing does all the heavy lifting when it comes to flavor. And let’s talk about those garlic breadcrumbs, they’re a game changer. They add that buttery crunch that makes every bite feel like a treat.
Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, packs great in lunchboxes, and holds up like a champ at potlucks. No wilted lettuce here!
Ingredients For My Caesar Broccoli Salad
Fresh Broccoli – You’ll want to cut the broccoli florets small so they catch all that creamy dressing. Don’t love raw broccoli? You can blanch it quickly or swap in roasted broccoli for a smokier vibe.
Caesar dressing – Use your favorite store-bought or homemade Caesar here. Want to lighten it up? Try a Greek yogurt-based Caesar or even a lemony vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
Butter – Salted butter is what gives the breadcrumbs that rich, nutty flavor. You can use olive oil if you’re on a dairy-free diet, but butter really brings that classic richness.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gets bloomed in the butter for max flavor. If you’re short on time, a sprinkle of garlic powder works in a pinch.
Panko breadcrumbs – Light, airy panko breadcrumbs give the topping a satisfying crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but panko makes it extra crispy.
Lemon zest – Fresh lemon adds a tart freshness that balances the richness. A splash of lemon juice or a bit of vinegar can brighten things up, too.
Seasoning – Garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt add a flavor boost that brings the breadcrumbs to life. Adjust or skip the cayenne if you’re spice-sensitive.
Grated parmesan cheese – Use good-quality Parmesan if you can! Asiago or pecorino Romano work well too if that’s what you have on hand.
Crispy chickpeas (optional) – For extra crunch and a little plant-based protein. Store-bought or homemade, they’re totally a fun topping.
For the full ingredient list and instructions, see the recipe card below.
How to Make Caesar Broccoli Salad
- Prep the broccoli – Wash, dry, and cut it into small florets so every bite gets nicely coated.
- Dress it up – Toss the broccoli in Caesar dressing and let it sit while you make the breadcrumbs. The longer it hangs out, the better the flavor.
- Make the garlic breadcrumbs – Melt butter in a skillet, sizzle some garlic, then stir in panko and lemon zest. Toast until golden, then season with spices and salt.
- Assemble – Pile those garlicky breadcrumbs on the dressed broccoli, add a generous shower of parmesan, and toss it all together.
- Serve – Top with extra cheese and crispy chickpeas if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Store Leftovers
Caesar Broccoli Salad keeps surprisingly well! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The broccoli stays crisp and the flavors enhance over time. If you’re making it ahead, save the breadcrumbs in a separate container and sprinkle them on just before serving so they stay crunchy.
Kellie’s Tips for the Best Caesar Broccoli Salad
- Cut broccoli small: Smaller florets = better dressing coverage and texture.
- Let it sit: A little time in the fridge helps the dressing soak in and mellow the raw broccoli.
- Double the breadcrumbs: Honestly, you’ll want extras. They’re perfect on any salad, soup, or even scrambled eggs.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a jammy egg makes this a full meal.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan Caesar dressing, plant-based butter, and skip the cheese, or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.
What to Serve With Caesar Broccoli Salad
This salad is a solid side or light meal all on its own, but it plays well with others, too!
More Easy Salad Ideas
Looking for more quick, fresh salads to keep in rotation? Try these next:
- Italian Chopped Salad
- Caprese Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Avocado Corn Salad
- Creamy Red Potato Salad
- Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries
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Caesar Broccoli Salad with Garlic Breadcrumbs
Equipment
- chef's knife
- cutting board
- cheese grater
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds broccoli florets or two heads of broccoli cut into florets.
- 8 ounces caesar salad dressing
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese, plus more as needed
- Crispy Chickpeas, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli by washing and drying it thoroughly. Remove the florets from the stems with a sharp knife being sure to remove as much of the stem as possible. The florets should be small.
- Add the broccoli to a large bowl and top with the dressing. Toss to coat.
- In a medium skillet over high heat, melt the butter then stir in the garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Add the breadcrumbs and lemon zest, stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden. Remove from the heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder salt and cayenne pepper, if using.
- Top the broccoli with the breadcrumbs and then the cheese.
- Toss to combine.
- Serve with additional grated cheese and crispy chickpeas, if desired.
Notes
- For a softer texture, blanch broccoli briefly before dressing.
- Store breadcrumbs separately if making ahead to keep them crispy.
- Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
