This healthy broccoli salad is packed with crunch and flavor! It features fresh broccoli, crunchy nuts, sweet raisins, and a simple dressing that ties it all together.
Trust me, this salad makes eating veggies fun! I love it as a side dish or even as a tasty lunch. It’s easy to whip up, and you’ll feel great enjoying every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for this salad. However, if you can only find frozen, just make sure to thaw and drain it well. I love using broccoli for its crunch and health benefits!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, use green onions or shallots instead. These still give great flavor without being too overpowering.
Celery: Celery contributes a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can work well as substitutes without losing too much texture.
Sunflower Seeds: For crunch and healthy fats, sunflower seeds are fantastic! If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds are a lovely alternative.
Greek Yogurt: This is a healthier swap for mayonnaise but still creamy. You could use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy, or even plain yogurt for a tang without extra fat.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Blending in This Salad?
Allowing the salad to chill is key for flavor development. Chilling helps the ingredients and dressing meld together beautifully. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine all solid ingredients in a large bowl first.
- Mix your dressing separately until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (1-2 hours) is even better for more flavor!
Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in taste. Plus, it helps the sunflower seeds soften fractionally, improving the overall texture!
How to Make Healthy Broccoli Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes before the salad is ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
Begin by taking a large bowl and adding the chopped broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, sunflower seeds, and either raisins or dried cranberries. Give them a gentle toss so they combine nicely.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Using a whisk or a fork, mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
3. Combine and Toss:
Now, pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes—this helps all the flavors come together! When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold as a delightful side or enjoy it as a light meal. Enjoy your healthy broccoli salad!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the broccoli completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the salad. This will help prevent the salad from becoming soggy. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise. For the sweetener, use maple syrup instead of honey. This way, you can enjoy the salad without compromising on your dietary preferences!
What Are Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the sunflower seeds may lose their crunch over time. If you prefer them crunchy, add the seeds right before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like chopped apples, bell peppers, or even cooked quinoa for extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the balance of complementary flavors!
