Can I make Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. It's one of the best make-ahead salads because the sturdy vegetables hold their texture very well.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes. Plain Greek yogurt creates a lighter dressing while still providing creaminess. A half-yogurt, half-mayo blend is also delicious.

Are the broccoli and cauliflower cooked?

No. Both vegetables are used raw, which gives the salad its signature crunch.

Can I leave out the cranberries?

Definitely. Some people prefer the salad without dried fruit, while others substitute dried cherries or raisins.

What apples work best?

Honeycrisp, Cosmic Crisp, Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady apples all work wonderfully because they stay crisp and provide a nice balance of sweetness.

Is this salad suitable for special diets?

With a few simple swaps, yes. Use vegan mayo for vegan diets Skip the feta or use vegan feta for dairy-free versions Use sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free option Use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan dressing

Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Amazing 20-Minute Favorite

Description

Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a fresh, crunchy side dish loaded with broccoli, cauliflower, crisp apples, dried cranberries, feta cheese, and roasted almonds, all tossed in a creamy lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, holidays, and everyday lunches.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

4–5 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2½–3 cups cauliflower florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 medium apple, diced (about 1½–2 cups)
½ small red onion, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
2–3 green onions, thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
½ cup lightly salted roasted almonds, roughly chopped

For the Dressing

¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fine salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, apple, red onion, celery, green onions, cranberries, feta cheese, and almonds.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
For the best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

Toss diced apples with a little lemon juice if making ahead to prevent browning.

Pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds can replace the almonds.

Goat cheese or cotija cheese can be substituted for feta.

Greek yogurt may replace part or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Add grilled chicken or turkey to turn this salad into a complete meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (1/10 recipe)
Calories: 275
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 315mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg