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–+ servings

Broccoli Apple Crunch Salad

A vibrant and texturally satisfying salad that combines crisp-tender broccoli florets with juicy apples, chewy dried cranberries, toasted seeds or nuts, and a tangy-sweet creamy dressing. This wholesome side dish strikes a harmonious balance between sweet and savory elements, making it ideal for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to everyday meals.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Broccoli Apple Crunch Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/4 cup finely minced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
  • Pinch each of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded yellow cheddar cheese optional
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt mayonnaise, or a blend of both
  • 2 medium-sized apples such as Gala or Honeycrisp, diced with skin left on
  • 1/3 cup hulled sunflower seeds or chopped pecans
  • 4 cups chopped broccoli florets from approximately 2 medium crowns
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup finely grated carrot

Instructions

  • Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Core and dice the apples, keeping the peel on for extra texture and color; toss them with a few drops of lemon juice if desired to delay browning.
  • Add the diced apples, grated carrots, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds or nuts, minced red onion, and shredded cheddar (if using) to the bowl with the broccoli.
  • In a separate small bowl or lidded jar, whisk together the yogurt or mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the prepared salad ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure that every component is evenly coated.
  • Serve immediately for a crisper texture, or cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to integrate fully before serving.

Notes

For added crunch, toast the nuts or seeds before adding them to the salad. If preparing in advance, reserve the dressing and mix just before serving to maintain the salad's crispness.