Broccoli Apple Salad

 

This Broccoli Apple Salad Is the Fresh, Crunchy Side Dish Everyone Will Love

Looking for a salad that’s anything but boring? Say hello to Broccoli Apple Salad — the perfect combination of crisp, creamy, sweet, and savory in every bite.

This vibrant dish isn’t your average leafy green salad. It’s a crunchy, colorful mix of raw broccoli, juicy apples, and sweet dried fruit tossed in a creamy dressing that keeps people coming back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple side for weeknight dinners.

And the best part? It’s easy to make and holds up beautifully in the fridge — meaning it’s just as good the next day.

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🥗 What Is Broccoli Apple Salad?

Broccoli Apple Salad is a raw veggie salad featuring chopped broccoli florets and fresh apples tossed with dried cranberries or raisins, crunchy sunflower seeds or nuts, and often a touch of red onion or bacon for extra flavor. It’s all brought together with a creamy, slightly tangy dressing that makes each bite irresistible.

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🛒 Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a classic version:

For the Salad:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small

• 2 medium apples, diced (sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)

• ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ½ cup sunflower seeds or chopped pecans/walnuts

• Optional: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (adds a savory, smoky kick)

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)

• 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper to taste

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👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Prep the veggies and fruit.
   Chop the broccoli into small, bite-size florets. Dice the apples (leave the skin on for extra color and crunch). Chop the red onion finely.

2. Mix the dressing.
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Assemble the salad.
   In a large bowl, combine broccoli, apples, dried cranberries, onion, seeds/nuts, and bacon (if using).

4. Toss it all together.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill (optional but recommended).
   Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.

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🌟 Why You'll Love This Salad

• No cooking required – Just chop and mix!

• Great for make-ahead meals – It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

• Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free.

• Perfect texture – Crunchy, creamy, and juicy all in one bite.

• Seasonal flexibility – Works great year-round, but especially in fall when apples are at their best.

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🍏 Tips & Variations:

• Make it lighter: Sub Greek yogurt for half or all of the mayo.

• Add cheese: A handful of crumbled feta or shredded sharp cheddar adds richness.

• Switch the nuts: Almond slivers or cashews are great alternatives.

• Use lemon juice: Toss the apples in a little lemon juice before adding to prevent browning.

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Final Thoughts

Broccoli Apple Salad proves that salads don’t have to be fussy to be fabulous. It’s the kind of side dish that feels fresh and fun — perfect for backyard BBQs, holiday tables, or your weekly lunch prep.

One bowl, a few simple ingredients, and a whole lot of flavor. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to salad!