Crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Tangy Dressing

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Description

This Crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors—fresh, crisp broccoli, sweet-tart apples, juicy raisins, and nutty toasted almonds, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together. It’s the kind of salad that makes eating vegetables feel indulgent! Whether for lunch, picnics, or as a side at dinner, this salad always disappears fast.

Ingredients For Crunchy Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Tangy Dressing

  • For the Salad:

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 medium apples (red or green), cored and diced

  • ½ cup raisins (or dried cranberries)

  • ⅓ cup sliced almonds (toasted)

  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1½ tbsp honey or maple syrup

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients:
    Wash and chop broccoli into small florets. Dice the apples (leave the skin on for color and fiber).

  2. Toast the Almonds:
    In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast sliced almonds for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.

  3. Mix the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

  4. Combine the Salad:
    In a large bowl, combine broccoli, apples, raisins, red onion, and toasted almonds.

  5. Toss and Chill:
    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • You can blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds if you prefer a softer texture, then immediately cool it in ice water.

  • For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits, sunflower seeds, or shredded carrots.

  • This salad tastes even better the next day!

Tips

  • Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture.

  • Make it ahead: Mix everything except the almonds and add them right before serving to keep them crunchy.

  • Dairy-free option: Use vegan mayo or a cashew-based dressing.

  • Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a full meal.

Servings

Serves 4–6 as a side dish or 2–3 as a main salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate, based on 1 of 6 servings)

  • Calories: 210 kcal

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 13g

  • Carbohydrates: 20g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugar: 13g

  • Sodium: 160mg

Health Benefits

  • Broccoli: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C & K—great for immunity and digestion.

  • Apples: Provide natural sweetness, vitamin C, and gut-friendly fiber.

  • Raisins: Add iron and natural energy.

  • Almonds: Healthy fats that support heart and brain health.

  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Aids digestion and helps balance blood sugar.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this salad a day ahead?
A: Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just add nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.

Q: What can I use instead of raisins?
A: Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or golden raisins work beautifully.

Q: How long will it last in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Fresh works best, but you can use thawed frozen broccoli—just make sure to pat it dry before mixing.

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