Can I use pre-cut broccoli or bagged florets?

Absolutely! Bagged chopped broccoli is a fantastic shortcut—just dice the pieces a little smaller if needed so they mix well with the other ingredients.

What’s the best apple for this salad?

Honeycrisp is ideal for its crispness and bright flavor, but any firm, sweet-tart apple like Fuji or Gala will work. Avoid softer apples, as they can become mushy.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a toss before serving. If making well in advance, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving for max crunch.

How can I make this salad nut-free?

Use sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for crunch, and double-check your dried fruit is nut-free. The salad is completely nut-free as written, but you can skip seeds altogether if needed.

Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe

Name: Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 heaping cups broccoli florets, chopped (340g); 1 cup carrots, shredded (80g); 1/2 cup dried cranberries (60g); 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (35g); 1/4 cup red onion, chopped (35g); 1 honeycrisp apple, chopped (200g); 3/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (170g); 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar; 1.5 Tbsp. honey (31g); 1 Tbsp. lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Ready to fall in love with your new go-to salad? This Broccoli Crunch Salad is not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also lightning-fast to throw together—just what you need on those bustling weeknights! Packed with vibrant veggies, sweet, chewy cranberries, and a creamy yogurt-based dressing, every bite is exploding with a mix of crunch, sweetness, and refreshing tang. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, prepping ahead for the week, or sharing with friends at a potluck, this recipe always shines.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbeatable Texture: Each forkful delivers crunch from fresh broccoli and sunflower seeds, balanced with the tender bite of shredded carrots and juicy apples. If you like your salads to have texture, this one’s a winner.
A Breeze to Prepare: Minimal chopping, zero cooking, and a quick-to-stir dressing mean this dish is on the table in 10 minutes (plus a short chill in the fridge).
Irresistible Flavor Party: The savory, slightly grassy taste of broccoli, the sweetness from cranberries and apples, and a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt dressing—it’s the salad that makes you want seconds.
Weeknight-Friendly & Versatile: Save time and still eat well! This salad works for dinner, meal prep, packed lunches, or a fresh side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, here’s a quick rundown of the key players in this salad and why they’re essential.

Broccoli Florets – The real star, giving the salad its hearty crunch and a burst of green nutrition. Chop into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Carrots (Shredded) – They add color, gentle sweetness, and extra crunch. Pre-shredded carrots save you time here.
Dried Cranberries – For juicy pops of tart sweetness. These contrast so well against the earthy broccoli.
Sunflower Seeds – Salty, nutty, and perfect for extra crunch. These also give a little protein and healthy fat.
Red Onion (Chopped) – A little goes a long way! It lifts the flavor with zippy sharpness.
Honeycrisp Apple (Chopped) – The best apple for a salad, with its super crunch and sweet, slightly tart flavor. Don’t skip it!
Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt – The tangy, creamy base for our lighter dressing. It creates a luscious texture without mayo.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Brings a bright, mouthwatering zing that keeps the salad tasting fresh.
Honey – Balances the tang of the yogurt and vinegar, tying all the flavors together.
Lemon Juice – Adds freshness and a gentle citrus tang that makes everything pop.
Salt and Pepper – Season at the end to taste; a small pinch really amplifies all the other flavors.

Tip: Don’t stress about exact amounts! The ratios here are forgiving, so adjust according to your taste and what’s in your kitchen.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

You can make this salad your own with some simple swaps:

Nuts: Swap sunflower seeds for sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, or even pecans for a different texture or nutty flavor.
Dried Fruit: No cranberries? Raisins, chopped dried apricots, or cherries are all delightful—whatever you have on hand.
Boost the Protein: Grilled or rotisserie chicken makes this salad hearty enough for a main course.
Vegan or Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy yogurt (like coconut or almond) and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan spin.
Cheese Lover: Sprinkle in some feta or goat cheese for a creamy, salty contrast.

How to Make Broccoli Crunch Salad

It’s almost embarrassing how easy this recipe is—but isn’t that what makes it perfect? Here’s exactly how it comes together:

Step 1: Combine Your Salad Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, diced red onion, and apple. Don’t be shy—this is one of those “more the merrier” salads!

Step 2: Whip Up the Dressing

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, and lemon juice. Season well with salt and pepper. This dressing is creamy yet light and adds so much personality.

Step 3: Toss and Mix

Pour the dressing over the salad. Use salad tongs or two big spoons to toss until everything is evenly coated. Every little floret should be glistening.

Step 4: Chill and Meld

For peak flavor, cover and chill the salad in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps the flavors meld and the dressing to really soak into the veggies.

Step 5: Give It a Final Toss

Before serving, toss again and taste. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed, and you’re ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Chop the Broccoli Small: Bite-sized is key. Smaller pieces ensure every ingredient gets coated in that divine dressing and makes the salad easier to eat.
Let It Rest: Don’t skip the chilling step! The hour in the fridge transforms this from just “good” to “mouthwatering.”
Make Ahead: Broccoli holds its crunch beautifully, so you can easily prep this a day in advance without worry.
Customize to Your Crowd: Taste as you go! Love it sweeter? A touch more honey. Like more tang? An extra splash of vinegar or lemon will do the trick.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Crunch Salad shines in so many settings:

As a Side Dish: Perfect with grilled meats, sandwiches, or veggie burgers, thanks to its crispness and tangy flavor.
Packed Lunches: Its hearty texture means it won’t wilt—enjoy at work or for a picnic.
Potluck Star: It easily doubles (or triples) for parties, and the flavors actually intensify as it sits.
Dinner Bowl: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas and call it dinner.

Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon on top just before serving for a fresh, zesty kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad stays fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days. If you plan to eat it later in the week, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for the ultimate crunch.

Freezing

This is not a great candidate for freezing—the textures just don’t hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed! This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut broccoli or bagged florets?

Absolutely! Bagged chopped broccoli is a fantastic shortcut—just dice the pieces a little smaller if needed so they mix well with the other ingredients.
What’s the best apple for this salad?

Honeycrisp is ideal for its crispness and bright flavor, but any firm, sweet-tart apple like Fuji or Gala will work. Avoid softer apples, as they can become mushy.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a toss before serving. If making well in advance, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving for max crunch.
How can I make this salad nut-free?

Use sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for crunch, and double-check your dried fruit is nut-free. The salad is completely nut-free as written, but you can skip seeds altogether if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Crunch Salad is proof that healthy eating can be quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Take 10 minutes to prep, chill it, and prepare for an explosion of color, crunch, and zingy freshness with every bite. Whether you’re new to homemade salads or just want something that’s as convenient as it is crave-worthy, this salad delivers every time. Go ahead—give it a try, and let this recipe earn a spot in your regular rotation!