A guilt-free holiday side that’s festive and nutrient-dense!
This light holiday broccoli salad is a vibrant, low-calorie side dish that brings crunch and color to your holiday table. Perfect for health-conscious hosts, it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and under 150 calories per serving.
Looking for a side that’s both festive and healthy? This broccoli salad combines crisp florets with toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and a zesty lemon-yogurt dressing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with turkey or ham.
The recipe is designed for quick assembly, with no cooking required. It’s ideal for meal preppers and those seeking a dairy-free, gluten-free option that still feels special. Save this pin for a guilt-free holiday boost!
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a Christmas feast, this salad adds a pop of color and crunch. The tangy lemon-yogurt dressing ties everything together, making it a standout side dish.
Ready to elevate your holiday table with a fresh, healthy option? Let’s dive into why this recipe works and how to make it.
Why This Recipe Works
Light & Nutrient-Dense
Packed with vitamins C and K from broccoli and antioxidants from cranberries, this salad supports immune health and digestion.
Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free
Uses plain Greek yogurt as a creamy base, making it suitable for dairy-free diets with substitutions. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Quick & Easy
No cooking required—just chop, toss, and serve! Perfect for busy holiday hosts who want to minimize time in the kitchen.
Festive Presentation
Bright green broccoli, golden pumpkin seeds, and ruby cranberries create a visually appealing dish that feels special for holidays.
Light Holiday Broccoli Salad
A vibrant, low-calorie side for your holiday table!
Ingredients
- - 4 cups broccoli florets
- - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- - 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- - 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- - 2 tbsp lemon juice
- - 1 tsp honey
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Chop Broccoli: Cut broccoli into small florets (1-inch pieces). Toss with 1 tsp salt and let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
💡 Tip: This step removes excess moisture for a crisp texture.
Toast Pumpkin Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast seeds for 2-3 minutes until golden. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Make Dressing: Whisk yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
💡 Tip: Adjust sweetness with more honey if desired.
Combine Salad: In a large bowl, mix broccoli, cranberries, and toasted seeds. Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
💡 Tip: Add herbs like parsley for extra freshness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Broccoli
Provides a crisp base and is rich in fiber and vitamins. For extra crunch, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen.
Substitutions: Cauliflower or green beans can replace broccoli for a different texture.
Pumpkin Seeds
Add a nutty crunch and magnesium. Toasting enhances their flavor.
Substitutions: Sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts work well.
Greek Yogurt
Creates a creamy, tangy dressing without dairy. Use vegan yogurt for a plant-based option.
Substitutions: Coconut yogurt or sour cream can be used.
Dried Cranberries
Add a sweet-tart contrast. Opt for unsweetened varieties for lower sugar.
Substitutions: Raisins or chopped dried apricots are alternatives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Broccoli Salad
Enhance Flavor
Add a pinch of cumin or a dash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for extra depth.
Keep It Fresh
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Toss before serving.
Boost Nutrition
Add a handful of chopped kale or spinach for extra greens.
Serve Warm
For a twist, roast broccoli at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes before tossing with dressing.
Variations & Customizations
Protein Boost
Add shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Spicy Kick
Mix in 1/2 tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing.
Herb-Infused
Toss with fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro for a fresh twist.
Citrus Zest
Grate orange or lemon zest into the dressing for extra brightness.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey or ham for classic holiday pairings.
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy contrast.
- Roasted carrots with a balsamic glaze.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water with lemon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the dressing and roast broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Store separately in airtight containers.
Refrigerator Storage
Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add dressing just before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze un-dressed broccoli for up to 2 months. Thaw and toss with dressing before serving.
Reheating Instructions
No reheating needed—best served chilled or at room temperature.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How to keep broccoli crisp?
A: Avoid overcooking and pat dry after chopping. Store in an airtight container with paper towels to absorb moisture.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, thaw and drain thoroughly before using to prevent sogginess.
Q: How to adjust dressing consistency?
A: Add 1-2 tbsp water for a thinner dressing or 1 tbsp mayonnaise for a thicker texture.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Final Thoughts
This light fresh holiday broccoli salad is a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy, festive side dish. Its vibrant colors, crunch, and tangy dressing make it a standout at any holiday table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress.
Don’t be intimidated by the holidays—this salad proves you can enjoy delicious, nutritious food without compromising on flavor. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let them know which topping adds the most crunch for you in the comments below! 🥬✨
