Introduction
Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Our Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a testament to a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. This salad pairs the crisp, fresh bite of broccoli with the creamy tang of a homemade poppy seed dressing, delivering a dish that’s perfect for lunches, side dishes, or any gathering where you want to impress without the stress.
Ingredients
Quantities for each ingredient are precisely measured to serve four, making it easy to adjust for larger or smaller groups.
- Broccoli Florets: 4 cups, fresh
- Shredded Carrots: 1/2 cup
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Dried Cranberries: 1/4 cup
- Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup
- Greek Yogurt (Plain): 1/3 cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Poppy Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Direction and Preparation Method
- Combining the Solids: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red onions, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
- Making the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, and poppy seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mixing It Up: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chilling: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This not only cools the salad but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQs
- Can I use low-fat Greek yogurt? Yes, low-fat Greek yogurt is a great substitute to keep the salad even lighter.
- What are some variations I can try? Experiment with nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds, or try using raisins instead of cranberries for a different type of sweetness.
- How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator? Properly stored in an airtight container, the salad can last for 3-4 days.
- Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure that there are no hidden sources of gluten based on brand variations.
- Can the salad be made vegan? Absolutely! Substitute the honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based yogurt to make this salad vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
The Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is not only a healthy and easy-to-make option but also a colorful addition to any meal. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet without skimping on taste. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as a wholesome lunch, this salad is sure to delight.