This crunchy broccoli salad is full of fresh veggies and tasty extras like nuts and cheese. It’s a fun way to enjoy your greens while keeping things light and healthy!
I love to add raisins for a sweet twist, and it’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! 🥦😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for this salad’s crunch and taste. If fresh isn’t available, frozen can work; just thaw and drain it well before use.
Red Onion: A milder flavor than yellow onions, red onion adds a lovely color. If it’s too strong for your taste, try green onions or omit them entirely.
Raisins: They bring a natural sweetness. You can replace them with dried cranberries or chopped apples for a different flavor profile.
Sunflower Seeds: Great for crunch, but you can substitute with any chopped nuts you enjoy, like almonds, peanuts, or walnuts.
Greek Yogurt: For a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is perfect. You can swap it with plain yogurt or light mayo if you prefer a creamier taste.
How Do I Prepare the Broccoli for This Salad?
Preparing the broccoli is straightforward. First, rinse it under cool water to remove any dirt, then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that it mixes well with the other ingredients and is easy to eat.
- For an extra crunch, consider blanching the broccoli. Boil it for about 2 minutes, then quickly transfer to ice water to stop the cooking.
- Make sure it’s thoroughly dried if you blanch it, to avoid sogginess in the salad.
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped nuts like almonds or pecans)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light mayo for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes to prep. Allow at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, which helps the flavors blend beautifully. So, around 45 minutes total for prep and chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Place them in a large mixing bowl to get ready for the other ingredients.
2. Add the Veggies and Nuts:
To the bowl with broccoli, add the chopped red onion, raisins, chopped celery, and sunflower seeds (or your choice of nuts). This mix gives your salad a delightful crunch and sweetness!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt and apple cider vinegar. If you like, add honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture and toss everything together until it’s beautifully coated. You want all those flavors to mix well!
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This lets the dressing soak into the veggies!
6. Enjoy!
When you’re ready, serve the salad cold as a delicious, crunchy side dish or a light lunch. Enjoy the freshness and flavor!
This salad is fresh, crunchy, and lightly creamy with a nice balance of sweet and tangy from the raisins and vinegar dressing. It’s easy to make and perfect for a healthy option!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
While fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before chopping and adding it to the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. However, for the best texture, you might want to add the sunflower seeds just before serving to keep them crunchy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it taste even better the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with light mayonnaise or even avocado for a creamy texture. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for a vegan option!
