Easy Broccoli Apple Salad Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Cheese
Struggling to find a salad that’s both healthy and satisfying? This Easy Broccoli Apple Salad Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Cheese is the perfect mix of crunch, creaminess, and flavor. It's ideal for beginner home cooks looking for a simple yet impressive side dish for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings.
With crisp broccoli florets, sweet apples, tangy cheddar cheese, and a smooth creamy dressing, this salad balances texture and taste in every bite. It’s quick to prepare and requires no special equipment — just a few fresh ingredients and a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Apple Salad
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy all in one dish
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick lunches
- Make-ahead friendly and great for meal prep
- Kid-approved and naturally gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut small)
- 1 large apple, chopped (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended)
- ½ cup shredded or cubed cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped almonds or sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make This Broccoli Apple Salad
- Prep the ingredients: Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Dice the apples (leave the skin on for color), slice the onion, and cube or shred the cheese.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, Greek yogurt, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: In a large bowl, add the broccoli, apples, red onion, cheese, cranberries, and almonds.
- Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat evenly.
- Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Chop broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating and better dressing coverage.
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith if you prefer a tangier bite.
- Soak sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness if needed.
- Make it vegetarian by using a rennet-free cheese.
- Substitute mayo with vegan mayo or more Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- This salad can be made up to 1 day ahead.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add nuts and seeds just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Do not freeze; the texture of fresh produce will degrade.
Custom Variations
- Swap cheddar for feta or gouda for a flavor twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced turkey for a heartier version.
- Include cooked quinoa or farro for extra fiber and bulk.
- Mix in pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh is best for texture. If using frozen, steam lightly and cool completely before adding to the salad.
What type of apple works best?
Sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well. Avoid overly soft apples.
Is this salad suitable for kids?
Yes, the sweet apples and creamy dressing make it very kid-friendly. You can skip the onion if needed.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and a vegan mayo alternative. Omit yogurt or use a plant-based yogurt.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Broccoli Apple Salad Recipe with Creamy Sauce and Cheese is a must-have in your salad rotation. It’s healthy, delicious, and flexible enough for lunchboxes, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Even if you're just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, forgiving, and guaranteed to impress.