Description
This refreshing Broccoli Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing combines crisp broccoli florets, sweet apple, and crunchy toasted nuts, all coated in a tangy and creamy lemon dressing. Perfect as a healthy side dish for any meal, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors without any cooking required.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 medium heads broccoli, about 1 lb, cut into bite-size florets
- 1 large carrot, grated or julienned
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tbsp sugar
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Combine the broccoli florets, grated or julienned carrot, chopped apple, thinly sliced red onion, toasted pecans or walnuts, and dried cranberries or raisins in a large bowl. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, sugar, sea salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Toss and serve: Just before serving, pour the creamy lemon dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chop the broccoli into small florets to ensure the dressing coats it evenly and every bite is flavorful.
- Toast the nuts lightly for extra crunch and enhanced flavor.
- Serve the salad immediately after tossing with the dressing to keep the broccoli crisp.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead but keep the dressing separate until serving.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead.