Broccoli Apple Salad

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Broccoli**:
Start by washing and drying the broccoli. Cut it into small, bite-sized florets, removing the tough stems. You can also peel and slice the stalks if you like. Set the broccoli aside in a large mixing bowl.

2. **Chop the Apples**:
Core and slice the apples into thin pieces. There’s no need to peel them unless you prefer to, as the skin adds extra fiber and crunch. After slicing, chop the apples into small cubes and add them to the bowl with the broccoli.

3. **Add the Red Onion**:
Dice the **red onion** finely to ensure it doesn’t overpower the salad. Add it to the bowl with the apples and broccoli.

4. **Prepare the Dressing**:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the **mayonnaise**, **apple cider vinegar**, **honey**, and **Dijon mustard** until smooth and creamy. Season the dressing with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper** to taste. If you prefer a tangier dressing, feel free to add a little more vinegar or honey to balance the flavors.

5. **Combine the Salad**:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli, apple, and onion mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.

6. **Add the Cheese and Seeds**:
If you’re using **cheddar cheese**, sprinkle it over the top of the salad for added richness and flavor. Then, add the **sunflower seeds** (or nuts of your choice) for a crunchy finish. Toss once more to evenly distribute the cheese and seeds throughout the salad.

7. **Chill and Serve**:
While you can serve the salad immediately, it’s often best to let it chill in the refrigerator for about **30 minutes**. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to cool down. Serve as a side dish or as a light meal on its own.

### Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Apple Salad

– **Use Crisp Apples**: Choose apples that are crisp and slightly tart, like **Granny Smith** or **Honeycrisp**, to balance the bitterness of the broccoli and the creaminess of the dressing. Avoid soft, mealy apples that might become soggy in the salad.

– **Customize with Add-ins**: Make this salad your own by adding extras like **cranberries**, **raisins**, or **bacon bits**. For a healthier twist, add some **chia seeds** or **pumpkin seeds** for an extra dose of nutrients.

– **Make it Vegan**: To make this salad vegan, swap out the **mayonnaise** for a vegan mayo or cashew cream. You can also use a plant-based honey alternative to keep it fully vegan.

– **Prep in Advance**: If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps prevent the broccoli from becoming soggy. Simply toss the dressing in before serving for maximum freshness.

– **Add More Protein**: For a more filling meal, add a protein source like **grilled chicken**, **chickpeas**, or **tofu**. This turns the salad into a complete dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

### Why Broccoli Apple Salad Is a Must-Try

Broccoli Apple Salad is an easy and refreshing way to enjoy your veggies in a creative and delicious way. The combination of crisp broccoli, sweet apples, and tangy dressing makes for a balanced salad that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, a family dinner, or enjoying it as a solo lunch, this salad is sure to please.

It’s also highly customizable, making it perfect for anyone looking to add more variety to their salad repertoire. With its nutritious ingredients and delightful crunch, **Broccoli Apple Salad** is a dish that’s not only good for your health but also enjoyable to eat.

Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of a salad that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying!