Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Category: Salads & Side dishes

This easy healthy broccoli salad is a colorful mix of fresh broccoli, crunchy nuts, and sweet raisins. It’s not only tasty but also packed with vitamins!

I love how quick it is to throw together—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Perfect for a light lunch or a fun side at dinner. Your taste buds will thank you! 🥦💚

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this salad. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli that’s thawed and drained, but fresh has the best crunch.

Red Onion: This adds a lovely sharpness. If you find red onion too strong, green onions or shallots offer a milder flavor.

Dried Cranberries: They give a nice sweetness. You can swap them with raisins or chopped apples for a different twist. Both options work great!

Sunflower Seeds: These provide crunch and nutrition. If you need a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds are a good substitute. I also enjoy using sliced almonds for extra flavor if you’re okay with nuts.

Bacon: While optional, it adds savory goodness. You can leave it out for a vegetarian option or use turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Feta Cheese: This brings creaminess and tang. If you prefer, goat cheese or even dairy-free cheese can work well here, keeping it just as tasty!

How Can I Make My Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?

Making the dressing is a simple but key step! It should be creamy, tangy, and a little sweet to balance flavors.

  • Start by mixing Greek yogurt with your choice of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This gives the dressing a nice tang.
  • Add honey or maple syrup to introduce sweetness. Adjust to your taste – you want just enough for balance.
  • Be sure to season with a pinch of salt and pepper. These enhance all the flavors.
  • Whisk everything together until smooth. It should be creamy and coat the salad nicely.

Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the dressing work its magic on the ingredients!

Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped (optional for some extra flavor)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the dressing:

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for a healthy creamy dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This crunchy and colorful broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish or light lunch ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl, toss together the fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, chopped bacon (if using), and crumbled feta cheese. This is where all the fun flavors come together!

2. Mix the Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. You want it to be smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss everything together until the broccoli and other ingredients are evenly coated in the tasty dressing.

4. Chill:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and makes the salad refreshing when served.

5. Serve:

Once chilled, give the salad a quick toss before serving. Enjoy it as a healthy side dish with dinner or a light lunch all on its own!

Enjoy your fresh, tasty, and easy-to-make healthy broccoli salad!

Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe

FAQ about Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute with other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just keep the overall balance of fresh and crunchy textures!

How Long Can I Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the broccoli may become slightly softer over time, but it will still be delicious!

Can I Make This Salad Vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and feta cheese and switch the Greek yogurt to a dairy-free yogurt alternative. You can also add extra nuts or seeds for creaminess and flavor.

Is This Salad Gluten-Free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients are free from gluten, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

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