Never miss a recipe! Subscribe Here

  • About
  • Contact
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Cotter Crunch

Cotter Crunch

Delicious Healthy Gluten Free Recipes

  • All Recipes
    • By Diet
      • Dairy-Free
      • Egg-Free
      • Gluten-Free
      • Grain-Free
      • Low-Carb
      • Nightshade-Free
      • Nut-Free
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
      • Whole30
    • By Type
      • Breakfasts
      • Casseroles
      • Condiments
      • Desserts
      • Drinks
      • Main Dishes
      • Sides & Salads
      • Snacks & Appetizers
      • Stews & Soups
    • By Method
      • Air Fryer
      • Blender
      • Instant Pot
      • No-Bake
      • Oven
      • Slow Cooker
      • Stovetop
    • Quick Meals
    • With Video
  • Meal Plans
  • Shop
  • Start Here
    • Gluten-Free Eating
    • More Diet Guides
      • Autoimmune Protocol
      • Anti-Inflammatory
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
      • Whole30
  • Cookbooks
  • Search
Home › Recipes › By Type › Sides and Salads
★★★★★31 Comments

Healthy Broccoli Salad (Mayo-Free)

Avatar photo

by Lindsay Cotter Posted: August 18, 2023

Egg-FreeGluten-FreeGrain-FreeLow-CarbNightshade-FreeVegetarian
Jump to Recipe
Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD

This Healthy Broccoli Salad Recipe makes the best detox salad for an easy summer meal! It’s delicious, full of nourishing fruit and veggies, and completely mayo free. We use an olive oil yogurt sauce instead! Quick and easy, it’s gluten-free, grain-free, vegetarian, and dairy free options. 

A creamy no mayo broccoli salad in a wooden bowl with two spoons.
Table Of Contents
show
  • The Best Way to Eat Broccoli 
  • Nutritious Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Additions and Variations
  • Do You Cook Broccoli for a Broccoli Detox Salad? 
  • How to Make This Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe
  • Tips for the Best Results
  • Serving Suggestions
  • How to Store
  • More Healthy Salad Recipes

The Best Way to Eat Broccoli 

Broccoli salad is a classic side dish for a summer BBQ, picnic, or potluck. However, most recipes are smothered with a thick mayonnaise-based dressing. 

And while we love the flavor, we aren’t always the biggest fans of the ingredients, and we often find ourselves wanting something a little on the lighter side. Especially when the summer heat is unbearable! 

Two hands holding a wooden bowl filled with healthy broccoli salad garnished with cashews.

So, we took the traditional recipe and lightened it up a bit, creating this healthy broccoli salad recipe instead. It’s crisp, crunchy, creamy, and full of nutrients and flavor, too! 

Plus, it has a prep time of just 15 minutes, a total time of under an hour, and requires no cooking. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get in the kitchen! 

Nutritious Ingredients You’ll Need

This healthy broccoli salad features a blend of whole food ingredients and a homemade broccoli salad dressing for a healthy detox salad that’s loaded with flavor and texture. Here are the broccoli salad ingredients you’ll need: 

Fresh broccoli, blueberries and a creamy yogurt sauce in bowls on a marble countertop.

Yogurt Sauce

  • Yogurt – We recommend using plain, full-fat yogurt for the best taste and texture. We’re particularly fond of using Greek yogurt for a boost of calcium and protein. However, any kind you like best will work as long as it is unflavored. 
  • Oil – Use extra virgin olive oil to combine the ingredients, thinning the dressing and adding healthy fats. 
  • Natural Sweetener – Use honey or agave syrup to sweeten the creamy yogurt dressing to suit your flavor preferences. 
  • Balsamic Vinegar – A little goes a long way to add a sweet, tangy flavor and boost digestion. 
  • Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice tastes best and works to cut through some of the heaviness of the fats, creating a bright, well-rounded flavor. 
Pro Tip

Ingredient Swap: If you don’t have lemon juice, red wine vinegar can be substituted. 

  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Use as little or as much as you like. 

Broccoli Salad 

  • Raw Broccoli Florets – You can’t have a healthy broccoli salad without broccoli! Choose a firm, bright green head, and chop it into pieces. Or, save time, and buy pre-chopped florets instead. 
  • Berries – Use dried cranberries or fresh blueberries to add a touch of sweetness, texture, vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. 
  • Roasted Nuts or Seeds – We’re partial to sunflower seeds, but any nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts, cashews, or pepitas can be used. 
  • Red Onion – Chop it into bite-sized pieces to add extra crunch and a bit of tang to every bite. 
  • Spinach Leaves – Technically optional, we like to include fresh baby spinach for extra color and health benefits. 

Health Benefits of Broccoli 

If you didn’t already know, broccoli is full of vitamins and nutrients and has many health benefits. For instance, it’s an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate. Plus, it’s rich in fiber and antioxidants. 

As a result, consuming broccoli as part of a healthy diet can help: 

  • Reduce Inflammation 
  • Prevent Cancer
  • Assist with Blood Sugar Control 
  • Support Heart Health
  • Improve Digestion
  • Promote Brain Health
  • Support the Immune System 

Additions and Variations

There are no rules when it comes to making a healthy broccoli salad that works for you! Feel free to experiment with different variations, substitutions, and mix-ins. For example, you can: 

An up close photo of broccoli florets in a glass bowl.
  • Make It Dairy-Free. Use plain, dairy-free yogurt or hummus in the dressing. 
  • Add Protein. Mix in shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or even hard-boiled eggs to transform this side dish into a complete meal. 
  • Include Extra Veggies. Add any veggies you have on hand like shredded carrots, celery, mushrooms, or bell pepper. 
  • Use More Fruit. Use both dried cherries and fresh blueberries. Or, included chopped apples, raisins, or grapes. 
  • Mix In Cheese. Crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, Parmesan, or sharp Cheddar cheese is a great way to add protein, flavor, and make the salad extra creamy. 
Pro Tip

Do You Cook Broccoli for a Broccoli Detox Salad? 

Nope! That’s part of the beauty of this recipe. It comes together in minutes with very little effort and absolutely no cooking required. That said, if cooked broccoli is easier for you to digest, feel free to roast florets first. Just allow them to cool completely before adding them to the salad! 

How to Make This Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe

This is sure to become your new go-to salad for every occasion! Just follow the instructions below, and it’s ready in no time.  

  1. Create the Dressing. Whisk the ingredients for the dressing together in a small bowl until they’re well combined and smooth. 
A clear bowl with a creamy yogurt sauce on a marble countertop.
A no mayo yogurt dressing ready to be mixed into a bowl of broccoli salad.
  1. Make the Salad. Add the veggies (except the spinach), fruit, and nuts or seeds to a large bowl. 
  2. Toss. Pour the dressing on top of the broccoli mixture, add the spinach, and gently stir to combine and coat the ingredients. 
Pro Tip

Pro-Tip: Feel free to use all the dressing for an ultra-creamy broccoli salad. Or, use just a bit for a lighter broccoli salad, and save the rest for later!

Two hands holding large spoons mixing together the ingredients of a healthy broccoli salad.
A large wooden bowl with a healthy broccoli salad.
  1. Chill. Adjust the seasonings to taste, and transfer the mixture to the refrigerator to chill before serving. 

Tips for the Best Results

We’ve made this recipe so many times we lost count! As a result, we’ve discovered a few tips to help you out. 

  • Chop the Ingredients Evenly. Try to chop the ingredients into uniformly small, bite-sized pieces so you get bits of everything in each bite. 
  • Adjust the Seasonings. Taste the salad as you go, and adjust the ingredients as needed to suit your flavor preferences. 
  • Meal Prep. Go ahead and double or even triple the recipe for a super easy meal prep option to enjoy throughout the week! 
Two hands holding a wooden bowl filled with healthy broccoli salad garnished with cashews.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this healthy broccoli salad as a flavorful side dish to all your favorite main courses! Some of our favorite pairings include: 

  • Grilled Ground Chicken Burgers
  • Air Fried Salmon 
  • Crock Pot Chicken Salad Sliders
  • Vegan Sandwiches

How to Store

This salad is great to make ahead of time and tastes even better the next day! Transfer leftovers to an airtight container, and keep them stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 

Prep

More of Our Favorite

More Healthy Salad Recipes

If you enjoy this easy healthy broccoli salad recipe, you’ll love more of our favorite options below! 

  • The Best Summer Strawberry Salad
  • Massaged Kale Salad with Blueberries
  • Melon Mango Avocado Salad
  • Greek Quinoa Tabouli Salad
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A creamy no mayo broccoli salad in a wooden bowl with two spoons.

Healthy Broccoli Salad (Mayo-Free)


★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Lindsay Cotter
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6–8 people 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

Make this mayo-free healthy broccoli salad side dish with a handful of nutritious ingredients in under an hour with zero cooking required! Vegan Option.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 – 1 ⅓ cups plain yogurt (see notes)
  • 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons honey or agave (optional)
  • 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar + 2 teaspoons lemon juice or 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • ¾ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ – ½ teaspoon black pepper

Salad 

  • 1 pound broccoli florets (16 ounces) – about 5 cups chopped
  • ½ cup dried berries or 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • ⅓ cup roasted nuts or seeds
  • ½ cup sliced/diced red onion
  • Optional: 1 cup baby spinach leaves, chopped
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Yogurt Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, oil, optional honey, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Salad

  1. Combine the broccoli, onion, blueberries and nuts/seeds together in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt sauce over the salad and gently mix until combined.
  2. Add optional spinach and toss again until well coated.
  3. Season to taste then place in the fridge to chill for 45 minutes to an hour before serving.

Notes

Substitutes – For a vegan option, substitute yogurt with non-dairy yogurt or hummus.

Tips – For creamier salad, use 1 ¼ to 1 ⅓  cup yogurt.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: side dish
  • Method: no bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size:
  • Calories: 128
  • Sugar: 4.3 g
  • Sodium: 166.2 mg
  • Fat: 7.9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10.6 g
  • Fiber: 2.4 g
  • Protein: 5.9 g
  • Cholesterol: 2.9 mg

Keywords: Healthy Broccoli Salad, no mayo broccoli salad, spinach broccoli salad, vegetarian side dish, gluten free salad

We have a new cookbook!

Allergy Friendly Recipes for Everyone Around The Table! Pre-order here

Do you have questions, feedback, or tips about this recipe? Leave a comment below with any questions or feedback you’d like to share!

Jump To Comments
1930 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet

Categories: Egg-Free, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Low-Carb, Nightshade-Free, Sides and Salads, Vegetarian Tags: detox, detox salad, gluten free, gut health, Gut Health Recipes and Nutrition, healthy, no mayo broccoli salad, salad, spinach broccoli salad, vegetarian, yogurt dressing

More recipes you’ll love!

A woman's hand opening an air fryer basket with two halves of cooked spaghetti squash.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
Overhead image of a bowl of easy pineapple coleslaw with two serving spoons sticking out.
Easy Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
A plate full of air fried asparagus spears with lemon wedges on the side.
How to Air Fry Asparagus
overhead image of a summer strawberry salad recipe including spinach, strawberries, avocado, feta, and pecans in a white bowl
The Best Summer Strawberry Salad Recipe
Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD
Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

About Lindsay

Hi, y’all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten-Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

  • About
  • Studio
  • Shop
  • Subscribe
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Have a question? Use ctrl+f or ⌘+f on your computer or the “find on page” function on your phone browser to search existing comments!

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Rate & Comment Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe rating ★ 5 Stars ☆ ★ 4 Stars ☆ ★ 3 Stars ☆ ★ 2 Stars ☆ ★ 1 Star ☆

  1. Sue Ellen Basore

    01/04/2019 at 11:31 AM

    Made this for lunch today. Yum-O!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • nod32

      04/26/2019 at 1:58 AM

      hey i have a question how can i contact with you ?

      Reply
  2. Jenny

    01/03/2019 at 2:18 AM

    I had most of the ingredients in the veggie garden, I used coconut yoghurt in my version and it was a winner! Works well with the Aussie barbeque season.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      01/03/2019 at 10:24 AM

      Oh wonderful! Yes so perfect for that weather. My husband is from New Zealand, he loves this during the holidays too. 🙂

      Reply
  3. Katie

    07/19/2018 at 8:28 AM

    So good! So much flavor!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  4. windows 7 ultimate product key

    06/13/2018 at 11:35 PM

    Vegetables are good for my health and my heart so I pay attention to this every day. Thanks for the article!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  5. run 3 unblocked

    06/08/2018 at 9:50 PM

    Thank you for sharing valuable information. Nice post. I enjoyed reading this post

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  6. bloxorz

    06/08/2018 at 8:40 PM

    I always try to bring vegetables to the meal. It is good for health and heart. Diet more than people who lose weight because I really need more vegetables and less protein. but still in good health

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  7. Gaby Dalkin

    06/02/2018 at 6:44 AM

    This is a superfood beauty!

    Reply
  8. Heidi @foodiecrush

    05/31/2018 at 4:38 PM

    Superfoods are my love language and you my dear are the matchmaker! Queen of Bowls and everything delish! Great looking recipe sistah!

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/31/2018 at 11:08 PM

      You are my super FOODIE friend. Crushin… LOL! See what I did there? p.s PLEASE, let’s coffee time!

      Reply
  9. Carolyn

    05/31/2018 at 12:04 PM

    What a great way to get all your veggies in one fell swoop!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  10. Erin

    05/31/2018 at 10:11 AM

    This is great to have in the fridge for lunch!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  11. Jen

    05/31/2018 at 8:22 AM

    I made a double batch to eat throughout the week and it is so good. The roasted broccoli is the best part, it’s definitely worth taking the time to do that. Thanks for a great, easy recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/31/2018 at 11:35 AM

      Awesome! so glad Jen! I love it too!

      Reply
  12. Jennifer Blake

    05/30/2018 at 1:00 PM

    I love that this is not drenched in “dressing.” The ingredients really shine through!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/30/2018 at 3:58 PM

      Totally! Light and flavorful

      Reply
  13. Kellie @ The Suburban Soapbox

    05/30/2018 at 12:39 PM

    This salad looks so refreshing….I haven’t eaten enough vegetables lately so this is going to end of week menu!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/30/2018 at 3:59 PM

      Haha I feel ya!

      Reply
  14. Cassie Thuvan Tran

    05/29/2018 at 10:49 AM

    I don’t believe in detox diets or cleanses, either! Yes, your body will benefit more from consuming wholesome foods that are rich in micronutrients, but you don’t have to give into the crazy expensive superfoods and meal plans. But anyways, this broccoli salad looks wonderful! Hope you get some well-needed rest after a stressful time period. Your body will thank you!

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/29/2018 at 3:12 PM

      right?! well said friend!

      Reply
  15. Julia Mueller

    05/29/2018 at 8:47 AM

    Giiiiiiirl, I LOVE broccoli salad, but am super anti mayo, so this is PERFECT! I’m loving all the nutritious ingredients and flavors…definitely a winner for all the summer barbecues and picnics!

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/29/2018 at 10:33 AM

      right? wish we lived closer. WE could bbq all summmmah long! gut health recipes included

      Reply
  16. Maureen

    05/28/2018 at 9:36 AM

    What do you recommend to use for a dairy free option?
    thanks,

    Reply
    • Lindsay

      05/28/2018 at 9:47 AM

      You could try my cashew cream sauce https://www.cottercrunch.com/how-to-make-vegan-cashew-cream-sauce/ , non dairy yogurt, or maybe. Chilled coconut milk/cream.. Keep me posted if you do!

      Reply
  17. Brittany Audra @ Audra's Appetite

    05/27/2018 at 4:15 PM

    I can’t wait to try this! I don’t like mayo so I’m happy this uses yogurt…and I love the idea of roasting half of the broccoli too! More variety of flavor/texture that way too.

    Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/27/2018 at 11:00 PM

      Let me know if you try it Brittany!

      Reply
  18. Tiffany Olson

    05/27/2018 at 10:05 AM

    Everything you’ve posted lately is just to die for! I’m a pretty new follower and can’t get enough of your bright, fresh flavors and photography. Thanks for the delicious recipes my family of 5 is enjoying!

    Reply
    • Tiffany Olson

      05/27/2018 at 10:06 AM

      Are* enjoying

      Reply
    • Avatar photoLindsay Cotter

      05/27/2018 at 11:26 AM

      Oh I am so glad Tiff! Keep me posted on what you try or if you have questions!

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD
Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

About Lindsay

Hi, y’all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten-Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

  • About
  • Studio
  • Shop
  • Subscribe
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD

Reader Favorites

  • photo collage of dairy-free gluten-free anti-inflammatory meal plan recipesAnti-Inflammatory Meal Plan {Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Meals}
  • cinnamon bites in turquoise bowl, top protein ball has bite taken out to show inside texture.Cinnamon Vanilla Protein Breakfast Bites + Video
  • a bowl of curried cauliflower rice soupCurried Cauliflower Soup with Kale
  • Collage of 4 saucepans and skillets filled with 4 different varieties of gluten free roux.How to Make Gluten Free Roux for Keto Sauces + Soups
  • stack of dried orange slices on white backgroundDried Orange Slices (Oven or Dehydrator)
  • meal prep containers with overnight oatmeal and superfoodsSuperfood Overnight Oatmeal {Healthy Meal Prep 2 Ways}

Recipes by Diet

  • Dairy-Free
  • Egg-Free
  • Gluten-Free
  • Grain-Free
  • Low-Carb
  • Nightshade-Free
  • Nut-Free
  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Whole30

Recipes by Method

  • Air Fryer
  • Blender
  • Instant Pot
  • No-Bake
  • Oven
  • Slow Cooker
  • Stovetop

Recipes by Type

  • Breakfasts
  • Casseroles
  • Condiments
  • Desserts
  • Drinks
  • Main Dishes
  • Sides & Salads
  • Snacks & Apps
  • Stews & Soups

Resources & More

  • Meal Plans
  • Nutrition Guides
  • How-To
  • Quick Meals
  • Videos
  • Round Ups
  • Cookbook
  • GF Start Here
Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Cotter Crunch
  • About
  • Studio
  • Shop
  • Contact

© 2023 · Cotter Crunch · Disclaimer & Terms · Privacy Policy

1930 shares
Detox Broccoli Salad! OUR FAVORITE MAYO FREE BROCCOLI SALAD