Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Lemon

Introduction

Looking for a refreshing, crunchy, and nutrient-packed salad that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors? This Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Lemon is the perfect combination of crisp broccoli, crunchy cauliflower, juicy apples, and a zesty lemon dressing. Not only is it delicious and healthy, but it’s also low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with vitamins. This salad makes an excellent side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, and pro advice to help you make the best broccoli cauliflower apple salad with a tangy lemon twist.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Crisp & Refreshing – A perfect balance of crunch and juiciness.
• Nutrient-Rich – Loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
• Versatile & Customizable – Works great as a side dish or light meal.
• Healthy & Diet-Friendly – Naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and high in fiber.

Ingredients

Vegetables & Fruits

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 2 cups cauliflower florets, finely chopped
• 1 large apple, diced (use Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith for best flavor)
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup celery, thinly sliced

Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey (or sugar-free substitute for keto)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Crunchy Toppings

• ½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional for sweetness)
• ½ cup feta cheese (optional but adds a tangy bite)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables & Fruit

1. Wash and chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Dice the apple into small chunks and immediately toss with 1 tsp lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Finely dice the red onion and slice the celery thinly.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Dressing

4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more lemon juice for extra tang.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

6. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, apple, red onion, and celery.
7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Add Crunch & Serve

8. Sprinkle in walnuts, sunflower seeds, raisins, and feta cheese.
9. Toss again, then let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour for a more developed flavor.

this PIN FOR LATER

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fats: 10g

Best Variations

1. Keto-Friendly Version

• Replace honey with monk fruit sweetener or omit it completely.
• Skip raisins/cranberries and opt for extra nuts.

2. Dairy-Free Option

• Omit feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
• Increase nuts and seeds for extra crunch.

3. Protein-Packed Salad

• Add grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Toss in some pumpkin seeds for an added protein boost.

4. Extra Creamy Version

• Mix Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamy lemon dressing.
• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Pro Tips for the Best Salad

1. Chop Everything Small

• Smaller pieces absorb the dressing better and create the perfect bite.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh, crisp broccoli and cauliflower make the biggest difference in texture.

3. Let It Sit for Better Flavor

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best taste.

4. Balance the Flavors

• Adjust the lemon juice, honey, and salt to find the perfect balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze this salad?

No, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the high water content of the veggies and apples.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?

Fresh is best, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using.

5. Is this good for meal prep?

Yes! Portion it out into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

6. What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or tofu are great options.

7. Can I make it nut-free?

Yes! Just omit the nuts and add more seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

8. How can I make it more filling?

Serve over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for added fiber and protein.

9. What’s a good substitute for olive oil?

Avocado oil or a light vinaigrette works well.

10. How can I make it extra tangy?

Increase the lemon juice or add a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Conclusion

This Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Lemon is a perfect blend of freshness, crunch, and tangy sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, meal prep option, or a dish to impress at gatherings, this salad is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful choice. With simple ingredients and endless customization possibilities, it’s a must-try recipe for any salad lover. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any season!

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