Description
A fresh, crunchy salad combining broccoli, apples, dried cranberries, and a light honey poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or potluck contribution.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large apple, diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, unsweetened or lightly sweetened
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion (optional)
- 1/3 cup toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse broccoli florets under cold water and pat dry. Chop into bite-sized pieces (about 4 cups).
- Core and dice one large apple into small cubes; keep skin on for color and nutrients.
- If using, finely dice 1/4 cup red onion. Soak in cold water for 5 minutes if onion flavor is too strong.
- Toast 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon poppy seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, toss broccoli, apple, dried cranberries, and red onion (if using). Pour dressing over salad and mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted seeds over salad and gently toss again. Adjust seasoning with salt or vinegar if needed.
- Chill salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent watery dressing. Soak red onion if too strong. Toast seeds carefully to avoid burning. Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar. Salad can be served immediately or chilled for better flavor melding. For softer broccoli, blanch briefly and cool before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: broccoli salad, apple salad, cranberry salad, honey poppy seed dressing, healthy salad, gluten-free salad, vegan option, quick salad