Description
Crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad
Ingredients
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
2 apples, diced (use sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup cashews (or almonds for crunch)
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, diced apples, dried cranberries, cashews, and red onion.
Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect salad every time. First, thoroughly wash the broccoli and apples. Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Core the apples and dice them into uniform pieces to ensure even distribution. For the dressing, use a whisk to fully emulsify the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, and vinegar until completely smooth. Season the dressing well with salt and pepper before tasting. In your large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top and use a large spoon or spatula to fold everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated. Do not skip the chilling step, as this allows the broccoli to slightly soften and the flavors to intensify.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in many settings. Serve it as a vibrant, healthy side dish at summer barbecues or potlucks alongside grilled chicken or burgers. It makes an excellent packed lunch—simply store it in a sealed container. For a heartier meal, top it with grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or chickpeas to transform it into a main course. Garnish with extra nuts or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for added texture just before serving.
How-to Summary
In short, this salad comes together in three key actions: whisk the yogurt-based dressing, toss all chopped ingredients in a large bowl, and chill before serving to meld the flavors. The active prep time is just 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. For best texture, add the nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or use all mayonnaise, thinning it with a little extra vinegar or lemon juice.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The apples may brown slightly but will still be safe to eat.
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds are all excellent substitutes for the cashews.
My dressing seems too thick. What should I do? Thin it out with a teaspoon of water, extra apple cider vinegar, or a squeeze of lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting the broccoli florets too large, as they won’t coat well with dressing or be pleasant to eat. Do not skip the chilling time; serving immediately means the flavors won’t have blended. Using overly tart apples can throw off the salad’s sweet and savory balance—stick with sweet varieties. Finally, do not overdress the salad; start with 3/4 of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed to prevent a soggy result.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines texture, flavor, and nutrition. Its simplicity and make-ahead potential make it an invaluable addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether for a quick weekday lunch or a festive gathering, this salad delivers a refreshing and satisfying crunch that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crisp in every bite.