Healthy Broccoli Salad: A Crunchy & Nutritious Delight for Every Meal

A nutritious, crunchy, and flavorful salad loaded with fresh vegetables and a delicious dressing! Perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients:

🔹 For the Salad:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
• ½ cup cucumber (sliced)
• ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds (or any nuts of choice)
• ¼ cup feta cheese (optional)

🔹 For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp mustard (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1️⃣ Blanch the Broccoli (Optional for Softer Texture)

• Boil water and add broccoli for 30 seconds.
• Drain immediately and transfer to ice-cold water.

2️⃣ Prepare the Dressing

• Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

3️⃣ Toss the Salad

• In a large bowl, mix broccoli, bell pepper, cucumber, onion, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and sunflower seeds.
• Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine.

4️⃣ Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and serve fresh!
• Enjoy as a light meal or a healthy side dish.

💡 Pro Tips:
✅ For added crunch, toss in toasted almonds or walnuts.
✅ Want extra protein? Add boiled chickpeas, tofu, or grilled paneer.
✅ For a creamy touch, mix in Greek yogurt or tahini dressing instead.

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