This crunchy broccoli salad is bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients! Tossed with sunny sunflower seeds and a zesty dressing, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
I love making this salad for lunch or a quick snack. It’s not just healthy, but the textures and colors make it so fun to eat. Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up—so easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the base of this salad, giving it a nice crunch. If broccoli is not available, consider using cauliflower as a tasty alternative. You can also use pre-cut broccoli to save time.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a salty, savory flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using crunchy chickpeas or smoked paprika for that hearty taste without the meat.
Dried Cranberries: These provide sweetness and a pop of color. If cranberries aren’t your favorite, raisins or chopped nuts can also work to add sweetness and texture.
Sunflower Seeds: These seeds give a delightful crunch. You can replace them with pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds if you like. They both add a great nutty flavor!
Greek Yogurt: This creamy base keeps the salad healthy. You can use plain yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt to cater to dietary preferences.
How Do I Make Sure My Broccoli is Perfectly Crisp?
To keep your broccoli fresh and crunchy, it’s essential to prepare it correctly. Start by rinsing the florets under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, chop them into bite-sized pieces, making them easier to eat. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Use fresh heads of broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- After chopping, consider blanching the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then plunging it into ice water to maintain that vibrant green color. This step is optional but helps keep the crunch.
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (shelled)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. For the best taste, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Total time: around 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by rinsing the broccoli under cold water. Carefully chop it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your salad and provide a nice crunch.
2. Add the Other Ingredients:
To the bowl of broccoli, add the chopped cooked bacon, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, finely chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese if you’re including it. Mix everything together gently so each ingredient is evenly distributed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), along with salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth. This dressing will add creaminess and flavor to your salad.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together well to coat the broccoli and other ingredients thoroughly. This will ensure every bite is full of flavor!
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the ingredients meld together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
This easy healthy broccoli salad is crisp, creamy, and packed with flavorful ingredients that give it a fresh and satisfying taste. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. Blanching frozen broccoli in boiling water for a minute and then ice bathing it can help maintain the bright green color and crunch.
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may get a little soggy due to the dressing, so it’s best to consume it within a couple of days for optimal freshness.
Can I Make This Broccoli Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply omit the bacon and feta cheese, and replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. You can also enhance the flavor with extra toppings, like chickpeas or avocado, for added creaminess.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add to This Salad?
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to add ingredients like shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or even cooked quinoa for extra texture and nutrition. Experiment with nuts or seeds for added crunch as well!
