Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The honey mustard dressing brings a sweet and tangy punch that ties the salad together beautifully.
Crunchy broccoli florets and fresh apples add vibrant color and texture.
The addition of dried cherries, almonds, and blue cheese (or cheddar) enhances the flavor complexity.
Perfect for meal prep – the flavors improve as it sits in the fridge.
It’s a healthy, no-cook salad that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp whole grain mustard
1 tbsp mayonnaise
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad:

12 oz broccoli florets, stems trimmed
¼ cup red onion, chopped
¼ cup dried cherries (or raisins or cranberries)
1 large honeycrisp apple, chopped (tossed with lemon juice)
½ cup smoky roasted almonds, slivered or sliced
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (or shredded extra-sharp white cheddar)

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

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until fully combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use (can be made a day or two ahead).
In a large serving bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, dried cherries, and chopped apples.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. If not serving immediately, cover and chill for several hours or overnight.
Just before serving, gently stir in the almonds and cheese, then toss again to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours (optional but enhances the flavors)

Variations

Swap the almonds for cashews, pistachios, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
For a vegan version, omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the amount of mustard or lemon juice.
Use green apples for a more tart flavor contrast.

Storage/Reheating

This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a few hours.
Keep the dressing and salad components separate if you plan to store leftovers for longer periods to prevent sogginess.
This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours or a day ahead. Just keep the dressing and salad components separate until ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, feel free to use any sweet apple variety like Gala or Fuji, but honeycrisp apples are particularly great for their balance of sweetness and crunch.

Is there a substitute for honey in the dressing?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey if you prefer a vegan option.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can use Dijon mustard or yellow mustard if you prefer a milder flavor.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

The salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using.

Can I use raw broccoli stems in the salad?

While the stems are edible, they can be tough and fibrous. It’s best to use only the florets for a more tender texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that the mustard and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken or even chickpeas would make a great addition for extra protein.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Conclusion

This Best Broccoli Apple Salad is a perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and tangy elements that will enhance any meal. With its delicious honey mustard dressing and a mix of fresh ingredients, it’s a delightful addition to your salad repertoire. Easy to make, healthy, and versatile, this salad will be a hit at any gathering or as a quick, satisfying side dish.

Best Broccoli Apple Salad

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Best Broccoli Apple Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic, featuring crunchy broccoli, sweet apples, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. With dried cherries, almonds, and blue cheese, it’s a vibrant, protein-packed side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and ideal for meal prep, this salad will quickly become a favorite!

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until fully combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use (can be made a day or two ahead).
In a large serving bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, dried cherries, and chopped apples.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. If not serving immediately, cover and chill for several hours or overnight.
Just before serving, gently stir in the almonds and cheese, then toss again to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Notes

Swap the almonds for cashews, pistachios, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

For a vegan version, omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Increase the amount of mustard or lemon juice for a tangier dressing.

Green apples can be used for a more tart flavor contrast.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American