Description
Looking for a fresh, crunchy, and vibrant side dish? This Broccoli Apple Salad is your new go-to! Packed with raw broccoli, sweet apples, chewy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all coated in a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s the kind of salad that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. Whether you’re hunting for quick lunch ideas, a healthy snack, or easy dinner sides, this salad delivers color, crunch, and flavor in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a simple weeknight dish.
Ingredients
2 heads broccoli, chopped into florets
2 apples, diced (Honeycrisp or Gala)
1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Wash and dry broccoli thoroughly. Cut into small, bite-sized florets.
2. Core and dice the apples, leaving the skin on for added texture and color.
3. Julienne or shred the carrots. Thinly slice the red onion if using.
4. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Let them cool.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup or honey, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, apples, carrots, cranberries, walnuts, and onions.
7. Pour the dressing over and toss everything until evenly coated.
8. Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
9. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, cut the apples just before mixing or toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
Toasting the walnuts adds a nutty depth and crunch you don’t want to skip.
You can make the dressing a day ahead and store it separately to keep the salad extra fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: broccoli apple salad, healthy snack, quick salad, easy recipe, lunch ideas, picnic sides