Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe

The Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad is a favorite among those who love fresh, crunchy, and flavorful salads. This popular deli-style dish combines crisp broccoli, smoky beef bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy dressing, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a potluck dish, or craving a nutritious side, this homemade version of Whole Foods’ broccoli crunch salad recipe is easy to make and even better than the store-bought one.

Let’s dive into making this delicious Whole Foods broccoli crunch salad at home!

Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe – The Best Copycat Version

---

• Author: Elyse
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 4 cups 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful dish that combines crisp broccoli, smoky beef bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish, great for meal prep, and even better than the store-bought version. With a balance of textures and flavors, this salad is both nutritious and delicious, making it a must-try recipe for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fresh and Crunchy Vegetables:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

Sweet and Savory Additions:

• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds
• 4 slices beef bacon, cooked and crumbled

See also  Cebolla Ensalada Recipe: Your New Go-To Side Dish

Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the broccoli into small florets.
2. Finely dice the red onion.
3. Cook the beef bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
4. Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

6. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled beef bacon.
7. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Let It Chill

8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

• Make It Healthier: Swap beef bacon for turkey bacon or smoked almonds. Use light mayo or replace mayo with all Greek yogurt.
• Add More Flavor: Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese or chopped apples for extra crunch.
• Make It Vegan: Use vegan mayo, replace bacon with smoked almonds or coconut bacon, and swap honey for maple syrup.
• Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the dressing may become watery.
• Meal Prep: Prep the dressing and store it separately to keep the salad fresh. Add bacon just before serving for maximum crunch.

See also  How to Reheat Taco Soup

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: chef’s choice
• Method: Salad, Side Dish
• Cuisine: American, salad

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: ~280
• Fat: ~18g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Protein: ~8g

PART 1: Ingredients for Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe

Fresh and Crunchy Vegetables

The base of this salad is all about freshness and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Broccoli Florets – The main ingredient, providing a crunchy bite and a boost of nutrients.
• Red Onion – Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Sweet and Savory Additions

These ingredients enhance the flavor balance in the salad:

• Dried Cranberries – Offer a sweet and chewy contrast to the crunchy broccoli.
• Toasted Sunflower Seeds – Provide a nutty crunch and healthy fats.
• Crispy Bacon Bits – Bring a smoky, salty element that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Creamy Dressing

The dressing ties everything together, adding a smooth and tangy flavor:

• Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy and rich base.
• Greek Yogurt – Adds a tangy flavor while keeping it lighter.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Honey or Maple Syrup – A touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the taste.

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation process.

PART 2: How to Make Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets.
• Dice the red onion finely for a balanced flavor.
• Cook the beef bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
• Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• A pinch of salt and black pepper

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and beef bacon.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Let It Chill

• Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

This allows the dressing to soak into the broccoli, making it even more flavorful!

PART 3: Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is that it’s highly customizable. Here are some ways to make it even more delicious:

Make It Healthier

• Swap bacon for turkey bacon or smoked almonds for a lighter option.
• Use light mayo or replace mayo with all Greek yogurt.

Add More Flavor

• Sprinkle in some shredded cheddar cheese for a richer taste.
• Add chopped apples for a fresh, fruity crunch.

Make It Vegan

• Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise.
• Replace bacon with smoked almonds or coconut beef bacon.
• Swap honey for maple syrup for a plant-based sweetener.

By making small adjustments, you can create a version that perfectly suits your dietary preferences.

PART 4: Nutritional Benefits of Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad

This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that offer a range of health benefits. Let’s take a look at the key ingredients and why they’re so good for you.

Why Broccoli is a Superfood

Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables, offering a variety of health benefits:

• Rich in fiber – Supports digestion and keeps you feeling full.
• High in vitamin C – Boosts your immune system.
• Packed with antioxidants – Helps reduce inflammation and protect against diseases.
• Supports heart health – Contains compounds that help regulate cholesterol levels.

Protein and Healthy Fats

• Beef Bacon and sunflower seeds add healthy fats and protein, making the salad more satisfying.
• Greek yogurt contributes probiotics for gut health.

Balanced Macronutrients

This salad provides a good mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded dish.

As you can see, this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad is not only flavorful but also nutrient-rich and satisfying.

PART 5: Storage and Meal Prep Tips

How to Store Broccoli Crunch Salad

• Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing, as the broccoli and dressing will become watery.

Can You Make It Ahead?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Prep the dressing and store it separately until you’re ready to serve.
• Keep the bacon crispy by adding it just before eating.
• Chop the broccoli and onions a day in advance for easy assembly.

PART 6: Best Ways to Serve Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad

This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is a crunchy, creamy, and incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side, a protein-packed main course, or a creative sandwich filling, this salad can be enjoyed in multiple ways.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a well-balanced meal.
• It’s the perfect addition to BBQs, potlucks, and picnics, offering a fresh, flavorful contrast to heavier dishes.

As a Main Course

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
• Serve it over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or leafy greens for extra texture and nutrition.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Use this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe as a filling for wraps with turkey or grilled vegetables.
• Spread it onto whole-grain bread for a creamy, crunchy sandwich alternative.

By exploring different serving styles, you can enjoy this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe in new and delicious ways, making it a go-to dish for any occasion!

PART 7: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Broccoli Crunch Salad

Even though the Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your salad. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Using Raw Broccoli Without Prepping It Properly

• Raw broccoli can sometimes be too tough and bitter.
• To make it tender and flavorful, blanch it quickly in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse with cold water.

2. Overdressing the Salad

• The dressing should coat the ingredients lightly—too much can make the salad soggy.
• Start with half the dressing, toss, and add more if needed.

3. Not Letting the Salad Sit Before Serving

• The Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe tastes better after resting for at least 30 minutes.
• The flavors will blend together, and the broccoli will absorb the dressing.

4. Skipping the Crunchy Elements

• The beef bacon, sunflower seeds, and cranberries are essential for texture and balance.
• If you don’t have sunflower seeds, try almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds instead.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure your Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe turns out perfect every time.

PART 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this salad without mayo?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt or use a mix of avocado and yogurt for a creamy but lighter option.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is best, but if using frozen, blanch it and drain well before adding to the salad.

3. What can I substitute for bacon?

Try turkey bacon, smoked almonds, or toasted pecans for a smoky crunch.

4. How do I make this salad vegan?

• Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo.
• Replace bacon with smoked almonds or coconut bacon.
• Swap honey for maple syrup.

don’t forget to visit our  Best Vegenaise Recipe

5. How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

Make sure to dry the broccoli well before mixing in the dressing. Also, add the dressing right before serving if making it ahead.

PART 9: Final Thoughts on Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe

This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is the ultimate combination of crunch, creaminess, and bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for meal prep, a family gathering, or a quick side dish, this salad is incredibly easy to make and completely customizable to fit your preferences.

With fresh broccoli, crispy beef bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy dressing, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, protein, and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe:

✔️ Simple ingredients and quick prep – Ready in just a few steps!
✔️ Nutritious and delicious – Packed with vitamins and healthy fats.
✔️ Perfect for meal prep – Stays fresh for up to three days.
✔️ Easily customizable – Adjust ingredients to match your dietary needs.

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome salad, this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is a must-try. Make it once, and it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!

Conclusion

This Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for meal prep, a potluck, or a quick side dish, this salad is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying. The mix of fresh broccoli, crispy beef bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, creates a flavor balance that everyone will love.

By following this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe, you can recreate the store-bought version at home—but even better! Not only do you get to control the ingredients and flavors, but you can also customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs. Whether you prefer a healthier twist with Greek yogurt, a vegan version with plant-based bacon, or an extra crunch with toasted almonds, this salad is incredibly versatile.

If you’re searching for a simple yet flavorful salad, this Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe is a must-try. Its fresh, healthy ingredients and satisfying crunch make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy it as a side, main dish, or even in a wrap—no matter how you serve it, it’s bound to become a household favorite!

Find the best alternatives for mayo in salads on Creamy Egg Salad (Without Mayo).