Name: Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups coarsely chopped broccoli (stems removed and finely chopped); 3/4 cup dried sweetened cranberries; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup shelled, roasted, and salted sunflower seeds; Feta cheese, to taste (optional); 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Zest from 1 lemon (about 2 teaspoons lemon zest); 2 teaspoons poppy seeds; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 31 reviews

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, then this Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, nutty almonds, and a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing that truly elevates every bite. Perfect for a light lunch, a colorful side dish, or dressed up for gatherings, this salad is fresh, refreshing, and impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of different food ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a white bowl filled with sliced almonds that are light brown and beige with a slightly rough texture. To the top left, there is another white bowl containing dark red dried cranberries with a wrinkled, shiny look. To the far right, a whole bright yellow lemon with a bumpy texture is placed near a blue and yellow jar. Below the lemon is a white measuring cup filled with a creamy liquid, likely milk. On the bottom left corner, there is a fresh green broccoli with a rough, bumpy texture. Surrounding the main bowl of almonds are smaller white bowls containing a variety of seeds or spices, including small black round seeds and a bowl with tan-colored seeds. A white container with a green label is partially visible near the broccoli. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen for their simplicity and the way they create a symphony of taste, crunch, and color in your salad. Each one brings something special—whether it’s the tang from the lemon, the sweetness from cranberries, or the satisfying crunch from nuts and seeds.

Broccoli (6 cups coarsely chopped): The star veggie that provides a crisp, fresh base full of nutrients and texture.
Dried sweetened cranberries (3/4 cup): Bring a juicy burst of sweetness to contrast the greens.
Sliced almonds (1/2 cup): Toasty and crunchy, adding a delicate nuttiness.
Shelled, roasted, and salted sunflower seeds (1/2 cup): For an earthy, satisfying crunch and a touch of saltiness.
Feta cheese: Adds creamy, tangy richness to balance the salad’s flavors.
Mayo (2/3 cup): The creamy base for the dressing ensuring it clings beautifully to every bite.
Whole milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the dressing without heavy richness.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Adds luscious texture and a subtle thickness to the dressing.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the dressing for that perfect harmony with tart and savory elements.
Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons): Brightens the dressing with tangy zest.
Lemon (for zest): Adds fresh, vibrant citrus notes that brighten everything up.
Poppy seeds (2 teaspoons): These tiny seeds give a delicate crunch and subtle nuttiness.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Broccoli

Start by removing the stems from your broccoli and finely chopping the florets into bite-sized pieces. This makes every forkful refreshing and easy to eat, avoiding those large chunks that feel unwieldy in a salad.

Step 2: Assemble Salad Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together your chopped broccoli, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese. This colorful combination sets the stage for the star player—your dressing!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Zest your lemon until you gather about 2 teaspoons of bright, fragrant zest. In a small blender, add the zest along with mayo, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Give your dressing a taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Once perfect, stir in the poppy seeds to infuse that signature crunch.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour your luscious lemon poppy seed dressing over the salad bowl, then toss everything gently but thoroughly so every piece gets a lovely coating. Cover the bowl and chill the salad for 30 minutes to an hour. This rest time helps the flavors meld wonderfully. Before serving, toss once more and taste to adjust salt if needed—sometimes a little extra seasoning is just what it takes to bring everything alive!

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe

A large white bowl holds five main layers of ingredients arranged in sections on a bed of finely chopped bright green broccoli. At the top center, there is a pile of dark red dried cranberries with a wrinkled texture. To the right of the cranberries, light brown almond slices are scattered, showing their smooth, flat surfaces. Below the almonds, there is a mound of crumbly, white cheese with a rough texture. Below the cranberries and to the left of the cheese, light tan sunflower seeds create a slightly shiny, small oval layer. The whole dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra sliced almonds or a few fresh lemon zest curls on top can add a beautiful finishing touch that makes this salad look even more irresistible. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint leaves can also brighten it up for an added pop of color and aroma.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal. It also complements spicy barbecue dishes by offering a cooling, citrusy contrast, or serves wonderfully with crusty bread for a lovely picnic or potluck addition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can serve this salad in individual mason jars or hollow out a bread bowl to make an edible salad container. Layering the ingredients before tossing can also make a pretty visual if you want it to be the centerpiece of your table spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen with time, but to keep the broccoli crisp, you might want to store leftovers without the dressing and toss just before serving.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, freezing this salad is not ideal—it will affect the texture and flavor. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated only.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and is not meant to be reheated. Just give it a good toss and enjoy straight from the fridge for ultimate freshness.

FAQs

Can I substitute ingredients in the Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots, and almonds for walnuts or pecans. Just keep the balance of textures and flavors in mind to keep the salad delicious.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the broccoli’s crunch.

Can I use yogurt instead of mayo in the dressing?

You can, if you’re looking for a lighter option. Greek yogurt works well and adds a tangy edge, but it will change the creaminess and sweetness slightly, so adjust sugar and seasoning accordingly.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Swap out the mayo for a vegan mayo, replace feta with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast, and you’re good to go. The salad’s fresh and vibrant flavors still shine through!

What’s the best way to toast almonds for the salad?

Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently, until they’re golden brown and fragrant—usually about 5 minutes. This brings out their nuttiness and adds extra crunch to your salad.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe box. It’s fresh, flavorful, and offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, nutty, and creamy all in one satisfying bite. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or impressing guests, this salad is guaranteed to brighten up your table and your day. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!

Lemon Poppy Seed Broccoli Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need