This crunchy broccoli salad is packed with fresh flavors! With crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts, it’s a perfect mix for a healthy side dish.
You can whip this up in no time! I love how the colors pop in my bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies—no one will even notice! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for crunch! You could swap them for cauliflower or Brussels sprouts if you prefer a different veggie. Just make sure it’s fresh to keep that crisp texture.
Red Onion: It adds a nice sharpness! If you find red onion too strong, try green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness! You can substitute with raisins or chopped dates, or leave them out if you’re not a fan.
Sunflower Seeds: They bring a delightful crunch. You can replace them with pumpkin seeds, nuts like walnuts, or even omit them if needed.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a savory note. For a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas or skip it altogether.
Feta Cheese: It provides creaminess and salt. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try vegan feta or omitting cheese.
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Creamy?
Making the dressing is straightforward, but getting it smooth is key. Start by whisking the Greek yogurt until it’s creamy before adding the other ingredients.
- Use a small bowl to combine the yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup).
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage for flavor.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps!
After mixing the dressing with the salad, let it chill in the fridge. This helps the flavors come together beautifully and makes it even tastier!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- 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
- 3 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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 broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In less than an hour total, you’ll have a scrumptious, healthy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Begin by washing the fresh broccoli. Cut it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl. Make sure the pieces are all about the same size for even mixing!
2. Add the Mix-Ins:
To the bowl, add the finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, chopped bacon, and crumbled feta cheese. This combination will give your salad a great variety of textures and flavors!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds a tangy and sweet note to your salad.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch option. The crunch and vibrant colors of this salad are sure to impress!
Dig in and enjoy this crunchy, colorful, and nutritious broccoli salad that perfectly blends savory, sweet, and tangy flavors! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
While fresh broccoli is best for crunch and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just ensure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing it into the salad to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become softer over time, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, skip the bacon and feta cheese, and use a plant-based yogurt for the dressing. You can also add extra nuts or seeds for added protein!
What Can I Substitute for Sunflower Seeds?
If you don’t have sunflower seeds, feel free to use pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. These will still give you that desired crunch!
