This Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad is packed with fresh veggies, crunchy nuts, and a light dressing that keeps it tasty and guilt-free! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for this salad. You can also use frozen broccoli, just steam it first and let it cool. Go for firm, bright green florets for the best texture!
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice bite to the salad. If it’s too strong for your taste, try green onions or scallions instead for a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries: They give a sweet touch. If you don’t have cranberries, raisins or dried cherries are great alternatives and work just as well.
Sunflower Seeds: These provide crunch and healthy fats. You can swap them with pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts if you prefer.
Bacon: For a bit of savory flavor, crispy bacon pieces are used. If you want a vegetarian option, try using roasted chickpeas or leave it out altogether.
Feta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based feta or omitting it entirely.
How Do I Make Creamy Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing is simple and creamy, adding that extra layer of flavor you want in a salad. Here’s how to make it:
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup to sweeten it up a bit. Adjust based on how sweet you like it!
- Add salt and pepper to taste and mix until smooth.
- Make sure to taste the dressing and adjust any flavors as needed.
This dressing not only ties the salad together but is also healthier than store-bought dressings. A win-win!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (shelled)
- 3 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs to chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. In total, plan for about 45 minutes so the flavors can truly blend together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by cutting the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. This size makes them easy to eat and mix. Place the florets into a large mixing bowl, ready for all the yummy additions!
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, finely chop the red onion and toss it into the bowl with the broccoli. It adds a nice crunch and a bit of color!
3. Mix in the Extras:
Now, add the dried cranberries for a sweet twist, the sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch, the chopped cooked bacon for flavor, and the crumbled feta cheese, if you’re using it for that creamy touch. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s nice and smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasonings if you like!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Now, give it a good toss until everything is evenly coated with that delicious dressing. It should look bright and colorful!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier.
7. Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch!
This salad is crunchy, slightly sweet, tangy, and creamy with a healthy twist. Perfect for a quick nutritious meal!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the salad. You can steam it lightly or let it sit in the fridge overnight, then chop it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
You can store this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the salad may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply omit the bacon and feta. You can replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a vegan honey substitute or maple syrup for sweetness.
What Can I Substitute for Sunflower Seeds?
If you don’t have sunflower seeds on hand, feel free to use pumpkin seeds, chopped almonds, or walnuts instead. They all add a nice crunch and healthy fats!
