Broccoli Tree Salad

The phrase often refers to a Korean-style simple steamed broccoli dish (nicknamed "broccoli tree" for its tree-like florets) from Maangchi, or a festive Christmas tree-shaped broccoli arrangement (especially popular around holidays).

I'll share both versions below.

Korean-Style "Broccoli Tree" Salad (Simple & Healthy Side Dish)

This is a quick, garlicky, seasoned steamed broccoli recipe. Maangchi calls each floret a "little tree" — perfect with BBQ or any meal.

Ingredients (serves 4–6 as a side):

• 2 heads broccoli (about 1½ pounds / 680g)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or neutral oil)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Cut the broccoli into medium florets — each piece will look like a small tree.
2. Place in a pot with ¼ cup water. Cover and bring to a boil, then steam for about 8–10 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp (don't overcook!).
3. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
4. While hot, add the olive oil, salt, sugar, minced garlic, red pepper (if using), black pepper, and vinegar.
5. Toss everything together gently. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy saying: “Let’s eat a broccoli tree!”
7. It's crunchy, savory-sweet, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Festive Christmas Tree Broccoli Salad (Fun Shaped Platter)

This is a cute, edible centerpiece — often made as a veggie tree or layered potato-broccoli cone "tree" for parties/holidays. Kids love it!

Basic Veggie Tree Version (no cooking needed beyond steaming):

• 3–4 heads fresh broccoli (cut into florets for the "branches")
• Cherry tomatoes (for ornaments)
• Yellow/orange bell pepper (cut into stars with a cookie cutter for decorations)
• Star-shaped yellow cheese or bell pepper for the top

Optional: pretzel sticks or carrots for the trunk, cauliflower for snow/base

Assembly:

1. On a large platter, arrange broccoli florets in a triangle/tree shape (wider at bottom).
2. Add cherry tomatoes as "lights/ornaments."
3. Top with a star cut from bell pepper or cheese.
4. Add pretzels or carrots at the bottom for the trunk.
5. Serve with a dip (ranch, yogurt-dill, or Kewpie mayo drizzle for extra fun).

Cute Cone Version (with potato base, popular in some recipes):

• Boil/mash 4 potatoes → mix with mayo, salt, pepper → shape into a cone on a plate.
• Cover with steamed broccoli florets to form the tree.
• Decorate with halved cherry tomatoes, bell pepper stars, cheese cutouts, and a drizzle of mayo or Kewpie for "garland/snow."
• Add fun extras like mushroom "ornaments" or tiny tomato "hats."

These look adorable on a holiday table!

If you're thinking of a classic creamy broccoli salad (with bacon, raisins/cranberries, sunflower seeds), let me know — that's the most common "broccoli salad" and super delicious too. Which style were you looking for?