Healthy Broccoli Salad without Mayo (Made with Greek Yogurt!)
If you’re looking for a fresh, crunchy, and creamy side dish that doesn’t rely on mayo, this Healthy Broccoli Salad without Mayo is about to become your new go-to. It’s light, tangy, and full of flavor — a refreshing twist on the classic potluck favorite. The secret? A Greek yogurt dressing that brings all the creaminess you crave, without the heaviness of mayonnaise.
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This salad is one I make all year long. It started as my “lightened-up” summer side dish, but after my family kept asking for it, it made its way into our regular rotation. Now, I even whip it up during the fall — the crisp broccoli and sweet cranberries just fit with the season. It’s one of those recipes that feels good to eat and is super easy to toss together on busy weeknights.
What Makes This Salad Healthy?
This Greek Yogurt Creamy Broccoli Salad is packed with good-for-you ingredients that make it as nutritious as it is delicious.
- No mayo: Replacing mayonnaise with Greek yogurt cuts down on calories and adds a boost of protein.
- Broccoli: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants to support your immune system and digestion.
- Cranberries: Add natural sweetness and antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
- Sunflower seeds: Provide healthy fats and a little crunch.
- Apple cider vinegar: Helps balance the dressing with acidity and may aid digestion.
It’s a low carb broccoli salad recipe that doesn’t feel “diet-y” at all — just fresh, wholesome, and full of flavor.
RELATED: Broccoli Crunch Salad is a delicious combination of fresh broccoli florets, shredded carrots, dried fruit, nuts, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a creamy dressing. The mix of textures makes every bite interesting, and the flavors balance each other perfectly. It’s a great alternative to leafy green salads when you want something a little heartier.
Ingredients you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy broccoli salad without mayo:
For the salad
- Fresh broccoli florets (5 cups): The star of the show! Chop them small for easy bites.
- Red onion (1/3 cup): Adds a nice sharp contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup): Sweet, chewy, and perfect with the tangy yogurt dressing.
- Roasted sunflower seeds (1/3 cup): For crunch and a bit of saltiness. You can swap in chopped almonds if you prefer.
For the Broccoli Salad Yogurt Dressing
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): The creamy base that keeps this salad rich without mayo.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the flavor.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon): A little sweetness to balance the tang.
- Salt and pepper: To bring it all together.
Why you’ll love this salad
This broccoli salad with Greek yogurt dressing is:
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, picnics, or holiday potlucks.
- Quick and easy: Just 15 minutes to make!
- Healthy but satisfying: Creamy, crunchy, and sweet all in one bowl.
- Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after chilling for a bit.
How to make Broccoli Salad without Mayonnaise
- Prep the veggies. Chop the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the red onion finely.
- Mix the salad. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
- Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve. You can serve it right away or refrigerate it for 30 minutes for the flavors to blend together.
Make this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing, then check out my Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing and more of my healthy salad recipes.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a bit, which makes it perfect for meal prep or parties.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli works best since it stays crisp, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well first.
Can I swap the Greek yogurt for something else?
You can use plain skyr or a dairy-free yogurt if you want to keep it lactose-free.
What can I add to make it more filling?
Try tossing in some cooked chicken, bacon, chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein.
How to store leftovers of this Creamy Broccoli Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again — the dressing might thicken slightly as it chills, but the flavors will be even better.
This Creamy Broccoli Salad without Mayo is fresh, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s a simple, fun salad recipe that fits any time of the year — from summer barbecues to cozy fall dinners. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or pack it for lunch, this low carb broccoli salad recipe is always a hit at the table.
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Broccoli Salad without Mayo Recipe
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Salad:
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small)
- 1/3 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds)
For the Greek Yogurt Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, red onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.5 cups fresh broccoli florets, 1/3 cup red onion, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, Salt and pepper
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes if desired, or serve immediately.
Disclosure
Recipes and photos are for your personal enjoyment only — please share the love by linking, not copying!Other Classic Salad recipes to try
- Heart Healthy Mixed Bean Salad – Turn canned beans, lentils and chickpeas into a flavourful salad that will add a healthy boost to your meals. Perfect year round, this fibre-rich salad is a great way of incorporating legumes into your diet. This can be served as a side dish, perfect for potlucks or to make it a main for lunch serve it over spiralized cucumbers.
- Classic Frito Taco Salad with Catalina Dresssing – a fun, flavorful, and easy dish that always gets rave reviews. Whether you’re bringing it to a backyard BBQ, potluck, or just making it for a weeknight meal, it’s a guaranteed favorite. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold taco seasoning, and crispy Fritos makes every bite delicious.
- Cucumber and Tomato Avocado Salad – a healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and a refreshing crunch. Whether you’re short on time or just want to add a light and colorful dish to your table, this recipe is your go-to. Give it a try and enjoy a little slice of freshness in every bite!
- Chopped Italian Salad – the perfect mix of healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re craving a healthy dinner option or a dish that’s quick to prepare, this salad has you covered. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
