This refreshing broccoli salad is packed with healthy ingredients like crunchy broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
I love how quick and easy this salad is to whip up. Plus, it’s colorful and tasty, making it a hit at family dinners. Who knew healthy could be so delicious? 🥦✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here. Look for bright green ones without yellow spots. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain it well.
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: I like using cranberries for a bit of tartness, but raisins add sweetness. You can also try chopped apples for a fresh twist or any dried fruit you enjoy!
Sunflower Seeds: These add great crunch. If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are a lovely alternative and taste fantastic. You could also skip seeds altogether if preferred.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy, tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, crumbled tofu or a vegan feta can replace it nicely.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Dressing?
The dressing is where the magic happens! Start with plain Greek yogurt for creaminess. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for tang and brighten the flavor. Choose honey for sweetness; maple syrup is a great vegan option. Make sure to taste and adjust with more salt or pepper to fit your taste.
- Mix the yogurt, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper well until smooth.
- Pour it over the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
- Chilling the salad helps flavors meld beautifully, making each bite delicious.
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare this salad. After mixing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. So, total time is around 45 minutes, but most of that is just waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
First, wash the broccoli and chop it into bite-sized florets. It’s best to be uniform so everything cooks evenly. Toss it into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Mix-Ins:
Next, add the chopped red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins if you prefer), sunflower seeds, chopped bacon, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the broccoli. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Finally, cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives it time for the flavors to meld together. Serve it cold and enjoy your delicious, healthy broccoli salad!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it into the salad. It’s best to let it sit at room temperature or microwave it briefly to thaw.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more the broccoli may soften, so enjoy it within this timeframe for the best texture!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the bacon and feta cheese, and instead, add avocado for creaminess. You can replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt to maintain the dressing’s creamy texture.
What Are Some Good Add-Ins or Variations?
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add diced apples or pears for extra sweetness, swap sunflower seeds for walnuts or almonds, or include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for crunch. Get creative and make it your own!
