There is something truly magical about the way flavors come together in this Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe. Crisp broccoli florets, juicy strawberries, and crunchy apples combine in a vibrant dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Tossed in a luscious, sweet-tangy poppy seed dressing and topped with toasted almonds and cubes of creamy Colby jack cheese, this salad not only dances on your taste buds but also delivers a beautiful mix of textures and colors. Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic, serving it at a family dinner, or simply craving a bright, healthy side, this Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of several clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different fresh ingredients; the largest bowl in the center holds bright green broccoli florets with textured surfaces, above it a bowl filled with vibrant red sliced strawberries showing juicy flesh; near the top right is a halved lemon showing its yellow juicy interior next to a small bowl of pale almond slices; below the broccoli is a bowl with orange and white marbled cheese cubes, to the right of that a bowl of pale green apple slices neatly layered; scattered around the bowls are whole strawberries and a bright green whole apple, small bowls with coarse white salt, black poppy seeds, a clear liquid, and a small empty measuring cup complete the scene, all on the white marbled surface cloth with soft natural lighting reflecting off the glass bowls, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple, fresh, and each plays an essential role in making this salad a standout. From the crunch of broccoli to the sweetness of ripe strawberries, every element adds to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and cheerfulness in your bowl.

Broccoli florets (8 cups): Use fresh, firm broccoli to ensure a crisp, green crunch that forms the salad’s base.
Colby jack cheese (8 oz, cubed): Adds a creamy, mild flavor and a delightfully chewy texture.
Granny Smith apples (2, chopped): These tart apples bring a refreshing bite and help balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
Fresh strawberries (2 cups, quartered): Provides juiciness and vibrant color that brighten the entire dish.
Slivered almonds (1/4 cup, toasted): Adds a toasty crunch and nutty aroma.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Gives a bright citrus zing that lifts the dressing.
Poppy seeds (1 teaspoon): Tiny bursts of visual appeal and subtle crunch in the dressing.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a creamy base that binds all the flavors together.
Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances acidity and enhances the overall sweetness (adjust to taste).
White vinegar (2 teaspoons): Offers just enough tang to keep the dressing lively and fresh.

How to Make Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the lemon juice, poppy seeds, mayonnaise, sugar, and white vinegar in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the salad, bringing a lovely balance of sweetness and tang that complements each ingredient perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Broccoli, Apples, and Cheese

In a large bowl, toss together your fresh broccoli florets, chopped Granny Smith apples, and the cubed Colby jack cheese. These fresh, crunchy, and creamy components provide the perfect platform for the dressing, so make sure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add the Dressing and Toss

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat each bit with that luscious poppy seed dressing. This step makes sure every bite is bursting with flavor and goodness.

Step 4: Fold in Strawberries and Almonds

Carefully stir in the quartered strawberries, being gentle so they maintain their shape and juiciness without turning mushy. Finally, sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds on top to add a satisfying crunch just before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe

A bowl of colorful salad with three main layers: bright green broccoli florets, red strawberry slices, and orange-yellow cheese cubes, all mixed together with white dressing speckled with tiny black seeds. The salad also contains small, thin almond slices scattered throughout. The bowl is white with a scalloped edge, placed on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, there are visible halves of lemon and some strawberry pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra slivered almonds or a few whole strawberries on top can add an inviting look, while a light dusting of freshly chopped fresh mint or a handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens the flavors even more. These garnishes aren’t just pretty—they bring an extra layer of freshness and texture that makes this salad feel celebratory.

Side Dishes

This strawberry broccoli salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even a savory quiche. It’s also fantastic alongside a weekend barbecue spread or as a fresh counterpoint to heavier meals like roasted meats or creamy pastas. The sweet and tangy profile cleanses the palate and complements rich dishes effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful twist, serve this salad layered in clear glass parfait cups, displaying the vibrant colors as a stunning visual treat. You could also stuff it into whole-grain pita pockets or offer it as a topping for a bed of mixed greens to turn it into a heartier entrée salad. Presentation matters and can make this familiar favorite feel fresh and exciting every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover strawberry broccoli salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness, as the apples and strawberries can release moisture and soften the broccoli over time. To keep your salad crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing just before serving if possible.

Freezing

Because this salad contains fresh fruit and mayonnaise-based dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture of broccoli and strawberries changes significantly after freezing, and the creamy dressing can separate once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for that perfect combination of flavors and crispness.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not needed or recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavor of the fresh ingredients and dressing. Simply take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli or strawberries for this salad?

You can, but it’s important to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight to retain the best texture. Fresh broccoli and strawberries will always yield the crunchiest and most vibrant salad, but if frozen is what you have, thaw and dry them well before use.

How do I keep the apples from browning in the salad?

Chopping the apples just before mixing into the salad helps. You can also toss them briefly in a little lemon juice before adding; this acidic touch slows oxidation and keeps those crunchy apples looking fresh and appetizing.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise work wonderfully and still keep that creamy texture with plenty of flavor.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

This salad is great to prepare a few hours ahead, or even the night before, as long as you wait to add the dressing until right before serving. This keeps the broccoli crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.

What other nuts can I use besides almonds?

Pecans, walnuts, or even pistachios can be delicious alternatives to the slivered almonds. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavors and add that perfect crunch.

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that this Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe will become one of your favorite go-to dishes for when you want something fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to make, endlessly versatile, and a true crowd-pleaser that will brighten any meal. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how effortlessly it elevates your table!

Strawberry Broccoli Salad Recipe