This Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad is a colorful dish packed with crunchy broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts. It’s fresh, tasty, and perfect for a quick side!
I love how it mixes colors and flavors without any fuss. It’s a great way to eat your veggies and feel good about it, plus it’s super quick to make—yes, please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key in this salad. Look for bright green, firm florets. For a different look, you can use cauliflower instead, which has a similar texture but a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: These add a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for something different, try chopped apples or grapes for a fresh twist. You can also omit them if you prefer a less sweet taste.
Sunflower Seeds: They give a nice crunch! If nuts are your thing, feel free to use sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, or pecans. Just make sure to check for nut allergies if serving to a group.
Greek Yogurt: This is used for a creamy dressing. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a non-dairy yogurt or even tahini mixed with a splash of water and vinegar for a similar texture.
How Do I Ensure My Broccoli Is Perfectly Tender?
The texture of broccoli is crucial for this salad. You want it crisp but not raw. Here’s how to prep it well:
- First, wash the broccoli thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Cut it into bite-sized florets, which helps it mix well with the dressing.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli for just a couple of minutes—until bright green and slightly tender, but still crisp. Immediately plunge it into ice water to stop cooking.
This technique keeps the broccoli vibrant and crunchy in the salad!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped nuts, e.g., almonds or walnuts)
- 3 strips cooked bacon, chopped (optional for added flavor)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayonnaise (or more Greek yogurt for a healthier version)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, and it benefits from chilling in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors get cozy together. So, overall, expect about an hour for prep and chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins), sunflower seeds, and chopped cooked bacon, if you’re using it. Mix well to distribute everything evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, add the plain Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey (if you want a touch of sweetness). Whisk everything together until smooth and no lumps remain. This creamy dressing will add so much flavor!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture. Gently toss everything together until the broccoli and other ingredients are generously coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salad according to your taste. Give it another light mix to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your crunchy and refreshing broccoli salad is ready to serve. It’s great as a healthy side dish or a light lunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This easy healthy broccoli salad is not only vibrant and delightful but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion!
FAQ – Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is best for this salad to maintain its crunchiness. If you only have frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using. However, it may not have the same crisp texture as fresh.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, omit the bacon and use a plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. You can also substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo. For a bit of extra creaminess, add a mashed avocado!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt, sour cream, or even a vegan alternative like coconut yogurt. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency might differ slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give the salad a good stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing!
