Broccoli Salad with Pickled Onion and Raisins

1. Prepare the Pickling Dressing

Combine the golden raisins and finely sliced red onion in a small bowl. Immerse them in a mixture of apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and granulated sugar, then add enough water to cover the mixture. Let this sit for about 10 minutes to pickle the onions and plump the raisins.

2. Prepare the Broccoli

Trim and discard the woody exteriors of the broccoli stalks, then chop the stalks and florets into bite-sized pieces. Place them into a large mixing bowl.

3. Combine Dressing with Oils

After the pickling dressing has done its work, enrich it by stirring in extra-virgin olive oil and sesame oil.

4. Assemble the Salad

To the broccoli, add cubed apple and finely sliced scallions. Pour over the dressing with the pickled onions and raisins, tossing well to coat each piece of broccoli. Season with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Add Final Touches

Scatter toasted sliced almonds and optionally, add halved red grapes over the salad. Mix gently to combine.