This colorful broccoli salad is packed with fresh veggies and a tasty dressing. It’s crunchy, vibrant, and perfect for a light meal or side!
You can mix it up with nuts or seeds for extra crunch. I love making this salad ahead of time; it gets even better as it chills in the fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star here, giving the salad its crunch. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness. If red onion is too strong for your taste, you can swap it with green onions or chives for a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: For sweetness, both work well. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider unsweetened coconut flakes or chopped apples. I prefer cranberries for their tartness!
Sunflower Seeds: They add crunch and healthy fats. You can replace these with pumpkin seeds or even chopped almonds if you prefer.
Greek Yogurt: This provides creaminess and protein. For a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt or a similar plant-based yogurt.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Is Flavorful?
The dressing is crucial for bringing this salad to life! Make sure to mix the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey really well until smooth. Adjust the honey or syrup to taste; if you like it sweeter, add a bit more.
- Combine all the veggies in a large bowl first. This ensures everything is evenly coated later.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 mins. This step really helps the flavors blend and gets that refreshing taste.
- Feel free to taste the salad before serving. If it needs more zing, a splash of lemon juice can brighten it up!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup unsweetened dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to soften the flavors, bringing the total time to about 45 minutes. Perfect for meal prep or a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. Place them in a large bowl. Next, finely dice the red onion and add it to the bowl along with the dried cranberries (or raisins), sunflower seeds, and any nuts you’re using. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the sweetness or seasoning as needed.
3. Combine & Toss:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything gently so that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients. This helps all the flavors to mix together beautifully!
4. Chill & Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is important as it allows the flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, just scoop it into bowls and enjoy!
This salad is not only healthy but also vibrant and delicious, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion! Enjoy the crunch and creamy goodness!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely before chopping it into small pieces. This prevents excess moisture in your salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
To make the salad dairy-free, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt. You can also use tahini or a vegan mayo if you prefer a different flavor.
What Other Add-Ins Can I Use?
This salad is versatile! You can add diced apples for sweetness, shredded carrots for color, or even cooked quinoa for extra protein. Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as some of the dressing may settle at the bottom.
