This colorful broccoli salad is a tasty mix of fresh broccoli, crunchy nuts, and sweet raisins. It’s also packed with vitamins, making it a healthy choice for lunch or a side dish!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, the flavors blend well together, and you can feel good about what you’re eating. Who knew salad could be this fun? 🥦😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for crunch and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli can work—just thaw and pat dry before mixing.
Bacon: While crumbled bacon adds flavor, you can skip it for a vegetarian version or use turkey bacon for a leaner option. Smoked paprika can give a similar smokey taste!
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice sharpness. If you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or sweet onions instead.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness. You can swap them with raisins or chopped apples for a different flavor. If you’re watching sugar, try unsweetened dried fruit.
Sunflower Seeds: They provide crunch and protein. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) work well as a substitute, bringing a nutty taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess. Try using goat cheese or omitted it for a dairy-free option.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for your dressing, bringing tanginess. Feel free to use a vegan yogurt if you want to keep it dairy-free; hummus can also be a fun alternative.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy and Tasty?
The dressing is key to tying the salad together. Start by mixing your Greek yogurt with apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. This gives the dressing a balanced sweet-tangy flavor.
- Whisk until combined and smooth—this helps to ensure even coating on the salad.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
- A tip: Let it chill in the fridge with the salad for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and makes every bite delicious!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for a healthier version)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a chilling time of at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend together perfectly. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you get to enjoy your tasty creation!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This will help the dressing stick better to the broccoli.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, crumbled bacon (if using), and feta cheese. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients well.
3. 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. This creamy dressing is what brings everything together.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the bowl of mixed ingredients. Toss everything together carefully until all the broccoli and other ingredients are coated nicely with the dressing.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and makes your salad extra delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, give the salad a quick stir again and serve it chilled. Enjoy this healthy, crunchy, and flavorful broccoli salad as a side dish or a light lunch!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can absolutely use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture. It’s best to cut it into bite-sized pieces if it’s not already prepped.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Dressing?
If you want to replace Greek yogurt, you can use low-fat sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Hummus can also be a great creamy option, adding a different flavor profile!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to blend, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like diced apples, shredded carrots, or even nuts for extra crunch. Just keep in mind to balance flavors for the best results!
