This Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, nutritious, and low-calorie option perfect for health-conscious eaters. Featuring fresh broccoli, juicy blueberries, and crisp apple, it’s dressed in a light and creamy Greek yogurt poppy seed dressing. This salad is great for a quick lunch, a side at dinner, or as a dish to pass at gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt, plain
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ tablespoon poppy seeds
For the Salad:
- 1 ½ pounds broccoli florets
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 large apple, diced
- Optional additions: sliced almonds, shredded carrots, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the poppy seeds. Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Wash the broccoli florets and cut them into bite-sized pieces if necessary. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes for a brighter color and a crisper texture, then quickly cool in ice water and drain.
- Rinse the blueberries and ensure they are free of stems and leaves.
- Dice the apple, leaving the skin on for extra fiber and color. To prevent browning, you can toss the diced apple in a little lemon juice.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, fresh blueberries, and diced apple.
- Pour the prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to integrate and the dressing to thicken slightly.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick mix to redistribute the dressing and check for seasoning, adjusting if necessary.
Tips:
- Optional Ingredients: Consider adding sliced almonds for a nutty crunch, shredded carrots for color, or dried cranberries for a touch of tart sweetness.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal or can be served as a refreshing side at barbecues and picnics.
- Storage: This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The acidity in the dressing will help keep the apples from browning too quickly.
Conclusion:
This Skinny Broccoli Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a pleasing dish for both the eyes and the palate. It’s a versatile recipe that encourages additions and substitutions to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy this healthy, vibrant salad as a wonderful addition to your meal planning!