Healthy & Creamy Broccoli Salad with Yogurt Dressing: A Fresh Take on a Classic!

For many, the classic Midwest broccoli salad evokes cherished memories of potlucks, family gatherings, and comforting home-cooked meals. Its signature creamy texture, savory crunch, and hint of sweetness have made it a timeless favorite. However, traditional versions often come packed with heavy mayonnaise and bacon, making them less ideal for those seeking lighter, healthier options. If you’re a fan of that beloved flavor profile but are looking for a more nutritious alternative, you’ve come to the right place! We’re reimagining this iconic dish, giving it a vibrant, guilt-free makeover that maintains all the deliciousness you remember, but with a wholesome twist.

Our updated version of this creamy broccoli salad swaps out the heavy mayonnaise for a light and tangy Greek yogurt dressing, significantly reducing calories and fat while boosting protein. Instead of traditional bacon, we opt for diced smoked ham, which provides a wonderful savory depth without overwhelming the dish. We also include a generous helping of crunchy almonds and pumpkin seeds, not only for their delightful texture but also for their abundance of healthy fats and essential nutrients. This salad celebrates fresh, raw broccoli, ensuring you get the maximum nutritional benefits from this superfood.

Why You Should Try This Healthy Broccoli Salad

This recipe isn’t just a delicious side dish; it’s a testament to how classic comfort foods can be transformed into healthier, equally satisfying meals. Here are a few compelling reasons why this creamy broccoli salad deserves a spot on your table:

1. Weight Watchers Friendly & Diet-Conscious: One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its excellent nutritional profile. By replacing mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and opting for leaner ham, we’ve created a salad that is remarkably lower in fat and calories. It’s perfect for those following a Weight Watchers plan, with a low point value that comes primarily from healthy fats found in the nuts and seeds. Enjoy a generous serving without compromising your dietary goals.
2. Incredibly Crunchy and Richly Textured: Texture is key to a truly satisfying salad, and this recipe delivers on all fronts. You’ll experience the crisp, fresh bite of finely chopped raw broccoli, the delightful chewiness of dried cranberries, and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds and pumpkin seeds. The tender pieces of savory ham add another layer of texture, making every spoonful an exciting culinary adventure.
3. Visually Appealing and Vibrant: Food should be a feast for the eyes as well as the palate! This broccoli salad is a colorful masterpiece, featuring the vibrant green of broccoli, the deep red of cranberries, the bright white of the dressing, and the rustic hues of the nuts and ham. It looks incredibly appetizing and fresh, making it a beautiful addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread.
4. Versatile Pairing for Any Meal: This salad is an incredibly flexible companion to a wide array of main courses. Its balanced flavors and refreshing character make it an ideal side for grilled chicken, baked fish, roasted turkey, or even a hearty steak. It can also stand alone as a light lunch or be a fantastic addition to a picnic spread or potluck buffet.
5. A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Cherished Classic: We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to maintain the beloved essence of the traditional Midwestern broccoli salad, ensuring it still offers that creamy, sweet, and savory balance. However, by making strategic, healthier ingredient swaps, we’ve elevated its nutritional value without sacrificing any of the comforting flavors that make the classic so popular.

Essential Ingredients for Your Healthy Broccoli Salad

Crafting this delicious and healthy broccoli salad requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and textures that make this dish so special.

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup of light Greek yogurt (245 g.): The star of our creamy dressing! Opt for plain, unsweetened light Greek yogurt for a thick, tangy base that’s rich in protein and significantly lower in fat than mayonnaise.
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice (30 ml.): Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright, zesty tang that cuts through the richness and enhances all the other flavors in the salad.
• 1 tablespoon of Stevia (12 g.): A natural, calorie-free sweetener that provides the subtle sweetness characteristic of classic broccoli salad without added sugar. Adjust to your preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (2.5 g.): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables and other ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (1 g.): Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and mild spice to the dressing.

For the Salad:

• 4 cups of broccoli florets (about 600 g.): The foundation of our salad. Choose fresh, firm broccoli with vibrant green florets. Cutting them finely ensures they integrate well and are enjoyable raw.
• ½ cup of red onion, finely chopped (75 g.): Red onion provides a sharp, pungent kick and beautiful color. Finely chopping it helps distribute its flavor without overpowering.
• ¼ cup of whole almonds, toasted (35 g.): Toasted almonds add a buttery crunch and healthy fats. Toasting truly brings out their nutty aroma and flavor.
• ½ cup of dried cranberries (60 g.): These provide bursts of sweet and tart flavor, contrasting beautifully with the savory and fresh components.
• ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds, toasted (30 g.): Another source of healthy fats and an additional layer of crunch and earthy flavor once toasted.
• 100 g. of smoked ham, diced: A lean, flavorful alternative to bacon. Dicing and lightly crisping the smoked ham adds a wonderful savory and smoky element.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes (toasting nuts and seeds, stir-frying ham)

Servings: 6

Serving Size: 1 cup

5 WW Points Per Serving. You can view the recipe on the WW App here. (WW login required.)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Your Healthy Broccoli Salad

Making this healthy broccoli salad is straightforward and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and nutritious side dish:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of light Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon of Stevia (or your preferred sweetener), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Using a whisk, thoroughly combine these ingredients until the dressing is perfectly smooth and all the flavors are incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; you might want a bit more lime for tang or Stevia for sweetness. Set this flavorful dressing aside while you prepare the other components.
2. Toast the Nuts and Seeds: Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C). Spread the 1/4 cup of whole almonds and 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a light golden brown color and a wonderfully fragrant aroma. Be sure to keep a close eye on them, as nuts and seeds can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely before adding them to the salad. This step is crucial for enhancing their flavor and ensuring a crisp texture.
3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Begin by washing 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry. Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli florets into very small, bite-sized pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they are to eat and the better they integrate with the dressing and other ingredients. Next, take your 1/2 cup of red onion and finely chop it. Fine chopping ensures the onion’s flavor is present but not overpowering.
4. Prep and Crisp the Ham: Dice 100 g. of smoked ham into small, uniform pieces. Heat a hot pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and stir-fry for a few minutes until it is lightly browned and slightly crispy. This process renders out some of the fat and intensifies the savory, smoky flavor, adding a fantastic texture contrast to the raw broccoli. Remove from the pan and let it cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the prepped salad components: the finely chopped raw broccoli florets, the finely chopped red onion, the cooled toasted almonds, the dried cranberries, the cooled toasted pumpkin seeds, and the crispy diced smoked ham. Ensure all these ingredients are well-distributed in the bowl before adding the dressing.
6. Mix the Salad: Now, pour the creamy Greek yogurt dressing you prepared earlier over the combined salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together. Continue to toss until the broccoli and every other component is thoroughly and evenly coated with the dressing. The goal is a consistent distribution of flavor and moisture throughout the salad.
7. Chill the Salad for Optimal Flavor: While you can certainly enjoy this salad immediately, its flavors truly develop and meld beautifully after a period of chilling. For the best taste experience, cover the mixing bowl tightly and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the dressing to infuse the broccoli and other ingredients, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your healthy and creamy broccoli salad cold. It’s an incredibly versatile side dish that complements almost any meal. Pair it with grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, roasted turkey, or even a lean cut of beef for a complete, balanced, and flavorful dining experience.

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions

One of the beauties of a good salad recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and customize this healthy broccoli salad to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Dried Fruit Alternatives: If dried cranberries aren’t your favorite or you don’t have any, don’t worry! Raisins are a classic substitute and offer a similar sweetness. For a unique tropical twist, consider adding small cubes of fresh pineapple or even dried cherries or apricots, chopped finely. These additions will introduce different notes of sweetness and tartness.
2. Dressing Customization: While our yogurt-based dressing is designed for health and flavor, you can always tweak it. If you prefer a slightly richer dressing, you could incorporate a small amount of a healthy mayonnaise alternative (like avocado oil mayo) or even a touch of plain kefir for added probiotics and a thinner consistency. For extra tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar works wonders, or a drizzle of honey if you like it sweeter.
3. Nut and Seed Options: This recipe uses whole almonds and pumpkin seeds for their excellent crunch and nutritional benefits. However, almost any nut or seed can work! Try walnuts for an earthier flavor, pecans for a buttery note, or even cashews. Sunflower seeds or chopped hazelnuts are also fantastic options. Mix and match to find your favorite combination, or simply use whatever nuts and seeds you already have in your pantry.
4. Boost with Additional Ingredients: Don’t limit yourself to the base recipe! Enhance the crunch and nutritional value by adding other seeds like chia seeds or hemp hearts. For a cheesy element, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or shredded sharp cheddar can add a delightful savory kick. A little bit of cooked, cooled quinoa can also be added for extra protein and fiber, turning it into a more substantial meal.
5. Vegetable Variations for Color and Flavor: Broccoli is the star, but other crunchy vegetables can be excellent additions. Thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) will add vibrant color and a sweet crunch. Shredded carrots contribute sweetness and more texture, while finely diced celery can offer a refreshing crispness. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Broccoli Salad

Achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your broccoli salad is easy with a few simple guidelines:

1. Properly Prepare Broccoli: Always wash your broccoli florets thoroughly before chopping. Since we’re eating the broccoli raw, proper hygiene is important. If you’re concerned about the raw texture or taste, you can blanch the florets in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking and preserve their vibrant color and slight crispness. The key for raw broccoli is to cut the florets into very small, uniform pieces—smaller than you might think—to ensure they’re pleasant to eat and absorb the dressing well.
2. Add Nuts and Seeds Last (for Maximum Crunch): To maintain that satisfying crunch, it’s best to add your toasted almonds and pumpkin seeds (and any other nuts/seeds) to the salad just before serving. If you mix them in too early, the moisture from the dressing can cause them to soften, diminishing their textural contribution. If making ahead, keep them separate and stir them in right before presentation.
3. Choose the Right Yogurt: For the creamiest and thickest dressing, opt for plain, full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt. Its rich texture closely mimics that of mayonnaise, providing excellent mouthfeel without the added fat. If you only have regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve for an hour or two to remove excess whey and achieve a thicker consistency. Adjust the tanginess of your dressing by adding more lime juice, or a touch of pure maple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter profile than Stevia alone.
4. Make Ahead for Enhanced Flavors: This broccoli salad is an excellent dish for meal prepping! The flavors deepen and marry beautifully after several hours in the refrigerator. Prepare the salad and dressing, combine them, and chill as directed. However, remember the tip about nuts and seeds: if you plan to make it more than a few hours ahead, store the toasted nuts and seeds separately and fold them in just before serving to ensure they stay wonderfully crunchy.
5. Chill Thoroughly Before Serving: Do not underestimate the power of chilling! Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour (and ideally longer) not only makes it refreshing to eat but also allows the broccoli to slightly soften and absorb the tangy, sweet dressing. This results in a much more cohesive and flavorful salad.

This healthier version of broccoli salad is incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and a true joy to eat. It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice taste when making healthier choices.

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Broccoli Salad

Servings: 6

Prep: 15 minutes mins

Cook: 10 minutes mins

Total: 25 minutes mins

A healthy twist on this creamy American classic side.

Ingredients 

For the Dressing:

• ▢ 1 cup of light Greek yogurt, (245 g.)
• ▢ 2 tablespoons of lime juice, (30 ml.)
• ▢ 1 tablespoon of Stevia, (12 g.)
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon of salt, (2.5 g.)
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, (1 g.)

For the Salad:

• ▢ 4 cups of broccoli florets, (about 600 g.)
• ▢ ½ cup of red onion, finely chopped, (75 g.)
• ▢ ¼ cup of whole almonds, toasted, (35 g.)
• ▢ ½ cup of dried cranberries, (60 g.)
• ▢ ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds, toasted, (30 g.)
• ▢ 100 g. of smoked ham, diced

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Instructions 

• Prepare the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of light Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of Stevia, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and the dressing is smooth. Set aside.
• Toast the Nuts and Seeds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1/2 cup of whole almonds and 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
• Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Wash and cut 4 cups of broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces. This will help ensure they are easier to eat and mix well with the other ingredients. Finely chop 1/2 cup of red onion.
• Prep ham: Dice 100 g. of smoked ham into small pieces and stir fry in a hot pan.
• Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped red onion, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, toasted pumpkin seeds, and diced smoked ham. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
• Mix the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the broccoli and other components are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure the dressing is well-distributed throughout the salad.
• Chill the Salad: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Serve: Serve the broccoli salad cold. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal and pairs well with a variety of proteins such as chicken, fish, or beef.

Notes

5 WW points per serving. 

Nutrition

Serving: 186gCalories: 129kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 12gFat: 4.6gSaturated Fat: 0.7gCholesterol: 8.9mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 553mgFiber: 4.1gSugar: 3.4gCalcium: 115mgIron: 1.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

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We hope you love this healthy and creamy broccoli salad as much as we do! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a modern, health-conscious twist. Perfect for any gathering or a simple, nourishing meal at home.