CHEF JEFF — ONE BYTE AT A TIME: Broccoli-Dried Cherry Chop-and-Toss

This side dish combines dried fruit with assertive flavors and finely chopped produce that come together beautifully.

Broccoli-Dried Cherry Chop-and-Toss

4 cups finely chopped broccoli florets

1/3 to ½ cup dried cherries (or raisins or dried cranberries)

1/3 to ½ cup finely chopped sweet red or yellow pepper (optional)

¼ cup finely chopped red onion

2 to 3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

1 to 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

Sea salt to taste

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Place broccoli, dried cherries, peppers if using, and onion in a large bowl.

Whisk together remaining ingredients, pour over salad ingredients and toss to coat.

Yield: Serves 4 to 6.

Grab more food tidbits at the Chef Jeff blog at GrandForksHerald.com.

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