This bright and crunchy broccoli salad is a tasty way to get your veggies in! With fresh broccoli, sweet raisins, and a tangy dressing, it makes a perfect side dish.
I love how simple it is—just mix everything in a bowl and you’re set. Plus, it’s so colorful that it always makes my table look cheerful! 🥦✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here! You can also use cauliflower if you want something different or a mix of both. Just remember, chopping them small helps everyone enjoy the crunchy texture!
Bacon: I love using cooked and crumbled bacon for that savory flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh for a hearty touch. For a lighter option, turkey bacon works well too!
Dried Fruit: While cranberries add a sweet-tart vibe, raisins work just as well. Feel free to swap in chopped apples or even grapes for a fresh twist. I often choose whatever’s on hand in my pantry!
Sunflower Seeds: These seeds give a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are a great substitute. Both add a wonderful nutty flavor!
Greek Yogurt: This is perfect for a creamy dressing. For a dairy-free version, try using unsweetened coconut yogurt or a tahini dressing. Either will keep it creamy while providing a different flavor!
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Tasty?
A smooth dressing can really elevate your salad! Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Start with room temperature Greek yogurt—this makes it blend easier.
- Whisk in apple cider vinegar slowly to incorporate it without clumping.
- Add honey or maple syrup gradually to balance the tanginess—you can adjust the sweetness to your liking!
- Always taste and season with salt and pepper as you mix. A little adjustment goes a long way!
Give the dressing time to settle with the salad in the fridge! This helps all the flavors combine beautifully. Enjoy your fresh broccoli salad!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, which allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. So, in total, plan for about 45 minutes to enjoy this refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets, making sure they’re small enough for easy eating. You can even peel and chop the stalk for extra fiber!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins), sunflower seeds, and feta cheese if you like that extra tang. Stir gently to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. This step is key for flavor!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time will help mellow the flavors and make the salad even more delicious. Once ready to serve, give it a quick toss and dig in!
6. Enjoy Your Salad:
This healthy broccoli salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any meal. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. Lightly steam it for a few minutes if you prefer it slightly tender; however, raw frozen broccoli will also work if you like a crunchier texture!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
For a vegan version, simply skip the bacon and feta cheese. Use silken tofu blended with lemon juice as a creamy dressing replacement for the Greek yogurt, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or settle. It’s a great option for meal prep!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas for extra color and crunch. Just make sure to chop them small enough to mix well with the broccoli!
