Skinny Broccoli Salad Recipe

Looking for a light yet incredibly flavorful salad that’s both healthy and satisfying? This Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect dish! Packed with fresh, crunchy broccoli, sweet apples, juicy blueberries, and a creamy honey-sweetened dressing, this salad is a refreshing alternative to heavy, mayo-laden broccoli salads. It’s easy to make, incredibly nutritious, and perfect for meal prep.

Whether you need a quick side dish for dinner, a healthy lunch option, or a colorful salad for potlucks and BBQs, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it stays fresh for days, making it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.

I started making this healthy broccoli salad when I wanted something quick, filling, and nutritious that didn’t feel like a typical salad. The sweet blueberries and apples add just the right amount of natural sweetness, while the poppy seed dressing gives it a deliciously creamy texture. It’s now one of my go-to salads for lunches, summer picnics, and holiday gatherings.

Health Benefits of Broccoli Salad

• Broccoli is a Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health, digestion, and heart health.
• Greek Yogurt for Protein & Probiotics: Greek yogurt in the dressing adds a protein boost while providing gut-friendly probiotics.
• Blueberries for Antioxidants: These tiny berries are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and powerful antioxidants that support brain health.
• Apples for Natural Sweetness & Fiber: A great source of fiber and natural sweetness, making the salad both tasty and satisfying.

Eating more fiber-rich vegetables and nutrient-dense ingredients like these supports weight management, boosts energy, and keeps you feeling full longer.

Ingredients for Skinny Broccoli Salad

For the Salad

• Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Fresh, crisp, and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
• Blueberries (1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and antioxidants.
• Apple (1 large, diced): Choose a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor.
• Sunflower Seeds (¼ cup, optional): Adds crunch and healthy fats.
• Dried Cranberries or Raisins (¼ cup, optional): A slightly tart contrast to the sweetness.

For the Poppy Seed Dressing

• Plain Greek Yogurt (½ cup): The creamy, protein-rich base of the dressing.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the dressing and balances the flavors.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a slight tang and extra depth of flavor.
• Poppy Seeds (1 teaspoon): For that classic crunch and nutty flavor.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): Enhances the overall taste.

Tip: If you prefer a richer dressing, you can swap Greek yogurt for half Greek yogurt and half light mayonnaise to keep it creamy yet light.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli & Fruit

Wash and chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Dice the apple into small chunks, leaving the skin on for extra fiber. Rinse and pat dry the blueberries to keep them fresh and plump.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness or tanginess based on your preference.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large salad bowl, add the broccoli, apples, and blueberries. Pour the poppy seed dressing over the salad, tossing gently until everything is well-coated.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend. Garnish with extra poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or sliced almonds for added crunch.

This light, creamy broccoli salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings.

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I love making this salad a day ahead because the flavors intensify, and the broccoli softens slightly while still retaining its crunch. The next day, it tastes even better!

Variations & Customizations

• Make it Savory: Add crispy bacon bits or diced red onions for a savory kick.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or dairy-free mayo.
• Add More Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a protein-packed meal.
• Make it Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Boost the Crunch: Sprinkle in chopped nuts or pumpkin seeds for added texture.

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This Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect balance of fresh, creamy, sweet, and tangy. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you need a healthy side dish for a summer BBQ, a nutritious lunch, or a potluck favorite, this salad never disappoints.

Try it once, and it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes! You can use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a thinner dressing.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes! Chopped pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds add great crunch and flavor.

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Fresh blueberries work best, but you can use frozen ones—just thaw and drain them first.

→ What other fruits can I use?

Try adding grapes, pears, or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.