I love how this Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad brings together fresh, crunchy broccoli and sweet, juicy apples for a dish that’s both healthy and delicious. It’s quick to make, taking under 20 minutes, and packed with flavor from sharp cheddar, tangy cranberries, and nutty sunflower seeds. The dressing, a mix of mayo, apple cider vinegar, and honey, ties it all together perfectly. Stick around to discover how to make it even more special!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite. It’s fresh, crunchy, and perfectly balanced with sweet and tangy notes.
- Quick and Easy Prep – Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Satisfying – Packed with nutrient-rich broccoli, apples, and a light dressing for a guilt-free dish.
- Versatile Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect as a side dish, lunch option, or potluck addition.
Recipe
This Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad is a revitalizing and crunchy dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light side. It combines fresh broccoli with sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and a creamy, tangy dressing for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 Honeycrisp apple, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, diced apple, shredded cheddar, red onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Add cooked bacon bits for a savory twist.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
Serving: 6
Calories: 220 per serving
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad is a nutritious and invigorating dish, perfect for a healthy meal or side. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Vitamin C | 60 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
What To Serve With It
When I’m serving up Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad, I love pairing it with dishes that either complement its crunch or balance its flavors.
For main dish pairings, grilled chicken or salmon works wonders, adding protein without overpowering the salad’s freshness. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll toss in some roasted chickpeas for extra texture.
Dressing options are key—I often go for a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy avocado-based one to enhance the flavors. Sometimes, I’ll even serve it alongside a warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
It’s all about creating a meal that feels free and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
I’d say you can totally use Frozen Broccoli instead of Fresh Broccoli if that’s what you’ve got. It’s your kitchen, your rules—just thaw it first to avoid extra moisture. Go wild, make it yours!
How Long Does This Salad Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
I once left a bouquet in water too long, and it wilted like a forgotten dream. For salad storage, I keep mine fresh for 3-4 days. My freshness tips? Seal it tight, keep it cool, and let it breathe.
Can I Substitute the Honey With Another Sweetener?
I can substitute honey with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave. I’d consider the taste comparison—maple adds depth, while agave is milder. I’ll choose based on the flavor I want to highlight.
Is This Recipe Suitable for a Vegan Diet?
I’m free to make this recipe vegan by swapping in dairy substitutes like plant-based yogurt or mayo. I can also boost it with vegan protein sources like chickpeas or tofu, ensuring it fits my lifestyle perfectly.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
I can totally make this dish ahead of time. For make ahead tips, I’ll prep ingredients but wait to mix until serving. Following storage guidelines, I’ll keep it airtight in the fridge for ultimate freshness and freedom.
