If you’re looking for a salad that feels like autumn in a bowl, this Broccoli Apple Salad is the perfect pick. It’s a crunchy, colorful, and flavor-packed side dish that balances savory and sweet in every bite. With crisp apples, crunchy broccoli, chewy dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing, this salad is a hit at gatherings and potlucks or even as a fresh meal prep idea.

What makes this salad stand out is the variety of textures and flavors. The broccoli stays nice and firm, the apples add a refreshing juicy snap, and the roasted sunflower seeds bring the nutty depth that takes it over the top. It’s a healthy yet indulgent way to eat more greens without ever feeling like you’re missing out.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Apple Salad

This salad is incredibly easy to make and stores well, making it perfect for busy weekdays or party prep. The creamy dressing has a tangy sweetness that coats every ingredient beautifully. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like bacon or feta.

Can I Use Raw Broccoli in This Salad?

Yes, and that’s what makes it so crunchy and fresh! The broccoli is used raw here, but it’s chopped small enough that it blends well with the other ingredients and absorbs the dressing nicely. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, you can blanch the broccoli for a minute and then chill it before mixing.

Ingredients for the Broccoli Apple Salad

This salad comes together with fresh, vibrant ingredients that complement each other perfectly.

Broccoli florets
Apples
Red onion
Dried cranberries
Sunflower seeds
Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
Apple cider vinegar
Honey
Salt & pepper

Each component adds a little something unique. Broccoli florets provide the bulk and crunch, while apples bring sweetness and juiciness. Red onion adds sharpness to balance the sweet. Dried cranberries give a chewy, tart note, and sunflower seeds bring the toasty crunch. The dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey is creamy and tangy with just enough sweetness. Salt and pepper finish the flavor off perfectly.

How To Make the Broccoli Apple Salad

Step 1: Chop and Prep

Chop the broccoli into small bite-sized florets and dice the apples into cubes. Thinly slice the red onion and set everything into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Add in the dried cranberries and sunflower seeds, then toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and the broccoli to soften just slightly.

Serving and Storing Your Salad

This salad serves 6 to 8 people as a side and can easily be doubled for larger crowds. It tastes best when chilled for a bit, making it a dream for make-ahead meals. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again.

What to Serve With Broccoli Apple Salad?

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Their smoky char pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the salad.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

This crisp salad is the perfect contrast to saucy, tender meat.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

For a vegetarian combo that’s both creamy and crunchy, this pasta is a great match Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

A comforting protein-forward meal that benefits from a refreshing veggie side Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl.

Classic Caprese Salad

Pair two bright salads together for a fresh, no-cook lunch Classic Caprese Salad.

Roasted Asparagus

Add even more green goodness to your plate Roasted Asparagus.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you loved this Broccoli Apple Salad, here are a few more fresh and flavor-packed recipes to explore:

Try the Classic Caprese Salad when you’re craving something with juicy tomatoes and fresh basil.
Make the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a heartier vegetarian meal.
Dig into the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a high-protein option.
Add Roasted Asparagus to round out your next dinner spread.
Serve it with a light and tangy side like the Cottage Cheese Egg Bites Cottage Cheese Egg Bites.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use green or red apples? Did you add in some bacon or goat cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too let’s help each other eat better and fresher.

Explore beautifully curated veggie-forward recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorites! Janet Dishes on Pinterest

Conclusion

This Broccoli Apple Salad is one of those easy wins that you’ll keep coming back to. It’s colorful, full of texture, and blends sweet and savory in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or a weekday lunch, this dish brings fresh energy to your meal. It’s proof that salads don’t have to be boring—they just need a little creativity.