Broccoli Apple Salad

Make Broccoli Apple Salad for a crunchy, tangy side that balances sweet fruit and smoky bacon.

Ingredients

• 1 head broccoli (cut into bite-sized florets)
• ½ cup red seedless grapes (sliced in half)
• 1 large apple (any variety, diced)
• ⅓ cup carrots (shredded or julienned)
• ¼ cup red onion (diced)
• ¼ cup bacon bits (divided)
• ¼ cup golden raisins
• 3 tablespoons sunflower seeds
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dressing

Whisk together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt, granulated sugar, and white vinegar in a small bowl until smooth and glossy; chill the dressing briefly while you prepare the salad components so it firms slightly and the sugar dissolves into a silky, tangy cream.

Step 2: Reserve the garnish

Measure out and set aside one tablespoon of the crispy bacon bits in a tiny dish for the final garnish, keeping the remaining bacon bits available to mix into the salad so they retain a mix of crunchy and slightly softened pieces.

Step 3: Combine the salad ingredients

Place the bite-sized broccoli florets, halved red seedless grapes, diced apple, shredded carrots, diced red onion, golden raisins, toasted sunflower seeds, and the remaining bacon bits into a large white mixing bowl; gently toss them together so colors and textures—crisp broccoli, juicy grapes, crunchy carrot threads, and chewy raisins—sit in a loose, inviting mound.

Step 4: Dress and finish the toss

Pour the chilled creamy dressing over the tossed vegetables and fruit, then fold repeatedly with a sturdy wooden spoon until every floret and piece of fruit is lightly and evenly coated in a glossy, clinging emulsion that highlights textures rather than drowning them.

Step 5: Garnish and chill before serving

Transfer the dressed salad into the serving bowl if needed, sprinkle the reserved bacon bits over the top for a crisp salty finish, give a final gentle lift so the garnish sits on the surface, then refrigerate at least one hour so flavors meld and the salad cools to serving temperature.

Notes

• Chill the dressing briefly to let the sugar dissolve and the dressing firm slightly.
• Reserve crunchy toppings like bacon bits and seeds for garnish to keep texture.
• Toss gently to avoid breaking broccoli florets or bruising fruit.
• Add a splash of lemon or vinegar before serving to brighten flavors if salad sits too long.
• For vegan option, use plant-based mayo and smoked tempeh instead of bacon.