Best Broccoli Feta Salad
This broccoli feta salad is a bright, nutrient-packed Mediterranean dish made with crisp broccoli florets, creamy feta, toasted nuts, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s refreshing yet satisfying, naturally gluten-free, and works beautifully as a side dish or light meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0–3 minutes
Total Time: 15–18 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
Salad
3 cups broccoli florets (raw or lightly blanched)
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup red onion, very thinly sliced
¼ cup almonds or walnuts, lightly toasted
2 tbsp sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Lemon Dressing
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp honey or maple syrup
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli
Use broccoli raw for extra crunch or blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately cool in ice water and drain well.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add broccoli, red onion, nuts, seeds, and fresh herbs.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
Combine
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Finish
Sprinkle feta on top just before serving.
Tips & Notes
Extra Creamy: Add 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt to the dressing.
More Protein: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or boiled eggs.
Less Onion Bite: Soak onion slices in cold water for 5 minutes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything except feta and mix just before serving.
Q: Is raw broccoli hard to digest?
Light blanching helps if you prefer softer texture.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes—replace feta with dairy-free cheese or avocado chunks.
Q: Is this good for weight loss?
Absolutely—high in fiber, low in calories, and very filling.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~220 kcal
Protein: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 4 g
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Sodium: 280 mg