Creamy Strawberry Broccoli Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Strawberry Broccoli Salad is a delightful, colorful dish that’s bursting with flavor. The freshness of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the broccoli and the creamy, tangy dressing. The addition of raisins adds a touch of sweetness, and . It’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of broccoli while indulging in the sweetness of strawberries. This salad is quick to prepare and sure to become a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional, for crunch)

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the broccoli and strawberries: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Hull and slice the strawberries.

2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, sliced strawberries, red onion, raisins (or dried cranberries)

4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

5. Add crunch: Sprinkle the sunflower seeds or chopped almonds on top for added crunch, if desired.

6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings and takes around 15-20 minutes to prepare. If you refrigerate it for a little while, it will taste even better as the flavors have time to combine.

Variations

• Vegan version: Substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt.

• Other fruits: Feel free to add other fruits, such as blueberries, grapes, or apples, for additional sweetness and variety.

• Nuts: Swap the sunflower seeds for walnuts, pecans, or cashews for a different nutty flavor and texture.

• Cheese: Add a little crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy addition to the salad.

• Crispy chickpeas: For a healthier crunch, add roasted chickpeas or nuts.

Storage/reheating

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The broccoli and strawberries may soften slightly over time, but it will still taste delicious. For the freshest texture, it’s best to enjoy it within a day of making it. Avoid freezing this salad, as the creamy dressing and fresh fruit will not hold up well to freezing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?

While fresh broccoli works best for its crunch, you can use frozen broccoli if that’s all you have. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before using it in the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a while in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just make sure to store the salad with the dressing in the fridge, and sunflower seeds or almonds just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries for a different flavor. Fresh fruits like apple slices or peaches could also work well in this salad.

Can I add grilled chicken or other proteins?

Yes, grilled chicken or even grilled shrimp would make a great addition if you want to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

How can I make this salad spicier?

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing or sprinkle chili flakes over the salad. You could also try adding sliced jalapeños for a fresh, spicy bite.

Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Yes! If you prefer a different dressing, you can use a vinaigrette, creamy ranch, or even a lemon tahini dressing. The sweet and tangy flavor of the honey balsamic would also be a great alternative.

Conclusion

Creamy Strawberry Broccoli Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh vegetables, sweet strawberries, and tangy dressing, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty side dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a light lunch, or a flavorful addition to a barbecue, this salad is a fantastic choice!

---

Print