Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad

πŸ•’ Prep: 20 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad is a colorful, crunchy delight that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. It's an excellent dish for any season, but it shines especially bright in summer or fall gatherings. A refreshing twist on a classic, this salad is both healthful and satisfying.

Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad

The main star here is broccoli florets, bringing a crunchy texture and plenty of nutrients. Dried cranberries add a sweet, chewy contrast that complements the broccoli's earthiness. Sliced almonds offer a lovely crunch and a mild nuttiness that ties everything together. Chopped red onion contributes a sharp, savory note, while shredded carrots provide a touch of sweetness and color. For the dressing, Greek yogurt and mayonnaise create a creamy base, apple cider vinegar adds a zesty tang, and honey lends natural sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your broccoli stems are thick, slice them thinly to ensure even texture.
  • Toasting the almonds briefly in a dry pan enhances their flavor and crunch.
  • For a creamier dressing, use full-fat Greek yogurt.
  • Let the salad sit overnight in the fridge for even better flavor integration.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or salmon for a hearty meal. It's also a great side dish at potlucks and barbecues. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside quinoa or farro for added protein and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for its crisp texture, but you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It keeps well for about 3-4 days in an airtight container, making it great for meal prep.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use additional Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative if you prefer.

Cranberry Almond Broccoli Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Use a large mixing bowl to combine your broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and shredded carrots. Toss them gently to ensure everything is well distributed.

In a separate small bowl, you'll want to make the dressing. Whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything together until the broccoli and other ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite balanced and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare β€” no cooking required!
  • A delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
  • Perfect for meal prep or as a make-ahead dish.
  • Rich in fiber and nutrients, thanks to fresh broccoli.
  • Easy to customize to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and shredded carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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