This easy broccoli salad is packed with fresh veggies and tasty flavors! It’s crunchy, colorful, and perfect for a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Who knew broccoli could be this fun? I love adding a sprinkle of nuts and a zingy dressing—it makes it extra special. Great for potlucks or just to keep in the fridge for snacking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for crunch and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh broccoli, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the salad!
Red Onion: Adds a nice sharpness. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, try using green onions for a milder flavor or even shallots for a sweeter taste.
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet bite! You can substitute with raisins or chopped dried apricots if you prefer. Just check the sweetness and adjust if needed.
Sunflower Seeds: They give a great crunch and extra nutrients. If allergic, try pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Bacon: Adds a smoky flavor, but it’s optional. You could skip it or replace it with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Feta Cheese: Provides a salty kick. Feel free to leave it out if you want to keep the salad dairy-free or substitute with a non-dairy cheese alternative.
How Can I Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
The dressing for this broccoli salad is simple yet delicious. Using Greek yogurt as a base gives it a creamy texture and a healthy boost of protein. Here’s how to make it really pop:
- Combine Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the honey or vinegar to your liking. Want it sweeter? Add more honey! Like it tangier? A bit more vinegar will do the trick.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder for some extra zing!
Mix well, then pour it over the salad ingredients and toss. Let it chill for a while so the flavors blend beautifully!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you need about 45 minutes to enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the fresh broccoli thoroughly under cool water. Then chop it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large salad bowl. You want your pieces to be small enough to enjoy in one bite but still big enough to keep their crunch!
2. Add Other Ingredients:
Next, add the finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, chopped bacon (if using), and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl with the broccoli. This colorful combination will make your salad not only tasty but visually appealing as well!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. The dressing is what brings all those flavors together, so make sure it’s well-mixed!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the salad bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated with the dressing. This helps ensure every bite is full of flavor!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a good stir before serving. This easy healthy broccoli salad makes for a fantastic side dish or a light snack any day of the week. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it’s best to let it thaw completely and drain any excess water before using it in the salad. Blanching frozen broccoli briefly in boiling water and then cooling it in ice water can help maintain a great texture!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make a vegan version of this broccoli salad, simply omit the bacon and feta cheese. For the dressing, replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth. You can also add some nutritional yeast for extra flavor!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give the salad a good stir before enjoying it again, as the dressing may settle over time.
