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broccoli salad

Lighter Broccoli Salad with Smoky Almonds and Tangy Dressing

This broccoli salad is a light and fresh dish featuring almonds, cranberries, and a tangy dressing, perfect for spring.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 29 minutes
Course salads
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • - Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • - Knife
  • - Cutting board

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli crowns Chopped into small florets
  • 1 cup red onions Diced
  • 1 cup dried cranberries Can substitute with raisins
  • 1 cup almonds Chopped or sliced
  • 1/2 cup pepitas Can substitute with sunflower seeds

For the Dressing

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Use vegan mayo for dairy-free
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup Or honey
  • 1 clove garlic Minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt Adjust to preference

For the Smoky Almonds

  • 2 tablespoons tamari Can substitute with soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional

Instructions
 

Making the Broccoli Salad

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Chop the broccoli into ½-inch pieces and dice the stems into ¼-inch pieces.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, and sea salt until smooth.
  • Add the chopped broccoli, diced red onions, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to coat.
  • Mix the almonds and pepitas with tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika. Roast in the oven for 10-14 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
  • Toss the toasted nuts into the salad and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time; store dressing and nuts separately to maintain freshness.
Keyword broccoli salad, easy recipe, healthy salad, potluck recipe, smoky almonds, spring salad