Broccoli Crunch Apple Salad
This vibrant and crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad combines fresh broccoli florets, crisp apples, dried cranberries, almonds, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a creamy, tangy poppyseed dressing. It’s a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Quick to prepare and perfect for make-ahead lunches or side dishes, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s an easy, delicious way to add fresh vegetables and fruit to your diet.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons (various)
- 1 salad serving spoon and fork set
Ingredients
- 2 heads fresh broccoli cut into small, bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
- 2 medium apples diced into chunks (approximately 2 cups)
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ⅓ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup raw sunflower seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: Rinse the broccoli thoroughly and trim it into small, manageable florets to ensure easy eating. Core and chop the apples into similarly sized chunks to match the broccoli pieces. Finely dice the red onion to add a subtle sharpness that balances the salad’s sweetness.
- Combine the Salad Base: In a spacious mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, chopped apples, diced red onion, slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Gently toss these ingredients to distribute the crunchy and sweet elements evenly throughout the bowl.
- Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and poppy seeds until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Dress and Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing gradually over the broccoli mixture, starting with a small amount to avoid overdressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Adjust the amount of dressing based on your preferred creaminess.
- Chill and Marinate for Best Flavor: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill, enhancing its refreshing quality before serving.
Notes
- Custom Add-ins: For extra savory richness, try adding crispy cooked bacon bits or cubes of sharp cheddar cheese. Nuts like pecans or walnuts make great substitutes for almonds. Adding grapes can introduce a juicy burst of sweetness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This salad tastes even better if made several hours or a day in advance. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice right after chopping.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch option.
- Storage Advice: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
