This Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad is packed with crunchy broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s bright, colorful, and full of flavor!
It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner. I love how fresh it feels, and I can eat it without any guilt. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star of this salad. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-chopped broccoli from the store. For a different flavor, try using cauliflower or a mix of both.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using green onions or shallots instead.
Raisins/Dried Cranberries: Both add a touch of sweetness. You can swap them for chopped apples or pears for a fresh twist, or even omit them if you’re watching sugar intake.
Sunflower Seeds: These add crunch! If you’re nut-free, you can use pumpkin seeds or skip the nuts altogether.
Greek Yogurt: This gives creaminess with added protein. Feel free to use regular yogurt, sour cream, or a vegan alternative if you need dairy-free options.
How Do You Make the Dressing Smooth and Creamy?
The dressing is key to your salad’s flavor. To get it smooth and creamy, start with the Greek yogurt as your base. Make sure to whisk it thoroughly with the apple cider vinegar until it’s lump-free. Adding honey is optional, but it balances the tanginess of the vinegar.
- Combine yogurt and vinegar in a bowl, whisk until smooth.
- Add in salt and pepper to taste, plus honey for sweetness.
- Ensure all ingredients are well blended for a consistent texture.
For added flavor, feel free to try herbs like dill or parsley. They can brighten up the dressing even more!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for creamier dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad will take about 15 minutes of preparation time. For the best flavors to develop, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, making your total time around 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your fresh broccoli and chopping it into bite-size florets. The smaller pieces will help everyone enjoy the crunch! Next, finely dice the red onion. Combine both in a large mixing bowl along with the raisins (or dried cranberries) and sunflower seeds.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, take the Greek yogurt and add apple cider vinegar. If you want a touch of sweetness, mix in honey or maple syrup. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Combine and Mix:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This way every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, give the salad a taste. If you feel it needs more flavor, feel free to add a little more salt, pepper, or honey to enhance the sweetness.
5. Chill and Serve:
Once mixed, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, take it out, and enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch!
This salad is fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor — the perfect choice for a delicious and nutritious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
It’s best to use fresh broccoli for this recipe as frozen broccoli tends to become mushy when thawed. If you only have frozen on hand, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before using it in the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. You can also replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your broccoli salad by adding ingredients like diced apples for crunch, shredded carrots, or cooked quinoa for extra protein. Just ensure you adjust the dressing proportionately if you add a significant amount!
