Crisp Apple Broccoli Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to the world of crisp, refreshing salads with this Crisp Apple Broccoli Salad! This delightful dish combines fresh, crunchy ingredients and a creamy dressing that’s perfect for any season.

Ingredients for Crisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Broccoli florets: These are the backbone of the salad, offering a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy nutrients.

Red apple: Adds a sweet, juicy contrast to the crunchy broccoli. Choose a variety like Fuji or Gala for extra sweetness.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, tangy bite that elevates the salad’s flavor profile.

Cheddar cheese: A touch of richness and creaminess that complements the fresh ingredients.

Sunflower seeds: Adds texture and a nutty flavor, giving the salad a delicious crunch.

Greek yogurt: The base of our dressing, it brings creaminess with a healthy twist.

Mayonnaise: Adds a classic creamy texture to the dressing.

Honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the dressing.

Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.

Apple cider vinegar: A touch of acidity that brightens the overall flavor.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, bringing all the flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crunch, lightly toast the sunflower seeds before adding them to the salad.
  • Chop the apple just before mixing to prevent browning.
  • If you're not a fan of raw broccoli, quickly blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute, then cool it down in an ice bath.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a versatile companion! Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner. It's also a great addition to your holiday table or as a refreshing side at a barbecue. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
Sure! Sour cream or regular yogurt can work too, but it might change the flavor slightly.
Is there a vegan option?
Use a plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise, and skip the cheese. You might want to add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Crisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by prepping your salad ingredients. In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, chopped apple, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds. This is your salad base, so make sure everything is evenly distributed for a balanced bite every time.

Next, let's make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until it's nice and smooth. You want all those ingredients to meld into a creamy dressing that'll coat your salad perfectly.

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Now, this is where the magic happens! Gently toss everything together, making sure each piece is covered in that delicious dressing.

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
  • Easy to prepare and requires no cooking.
  • Great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.
  • Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish at dinner.

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 red apple, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped apple, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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