Broccoli Salad

Step 1

To make the dressing, place the raisins and red onion in a small bowl. Add the vinegar, sugar, ¾ teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons of water, and toss well to combine. Leave to pickle for 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2

Peel the woody exterior from the broccoli stalks and discard. Chop the stalks into ½-inch pieces. Chop the broccoli florets into ½-inch pieces. (The pieces do not have to be uniform or the same shape.) Place all the broccoli into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3

After 10 minutes, finish the dressing by adding the olive oil and sesame oil to the bowl with the pickling raisins and red onion, and stir well to combine. Taste and season with more salt if needed. It should be tangy, slightly sweet, and a little salty.

Step 4

Add the raisin-and-onion dressing to the broccoli along with the apple and scallions. Using two large spoons, toss well so that everything is well coated. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste. Taste to make sure you are happy with the seasonings, adding more if needed.

Step 5

When you are ready to eat, add the almonds and grapes (if using), and gently toss. Serve at room temperature.