Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Low Carb Broccoli Cucumber Salad is the perfect balance of refreshing, crunchy vegetables and a creamy, zesty dressing. The combination of crisp broccoli, cucumber, and toasted pine nuts gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing adds a smooth, creamy texture. The addition of feta cheese, garlic, and lime juice provides a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or something to bring to a potluck, this salad checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
1 English cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
Juice from 1/2 a lime
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp minced garlic

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, sliced cucumber, pine nuts, feta cheese, and chopped green onions.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli and cucumber mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve cold as a light lunch or side dish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Toasted Pine Nuts: For extra flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the salad.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions for more color and variety.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for a different twist.
Cheese Options: Substitute feta with goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a change in flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best served fresh, but it can be enjoyed cold from the fridge for a quick meal or snack.
Reheating: Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary. Simply serve it chilled from the fridge.

FAQs

How long can I store the Low Carb Broccoli Cucumber Salad?

You can store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, the pine nuts may lose their crunch after a day or two, so it’s best to add them just before serving.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time, but add the pine nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use a different kind of yogurt?

Yes, you can use a different type of yogurt, such as regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt, if you prefer. Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture, but you can experiment with what works best for you.

How can I make this salad more filling?

For a more filling salad, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You could also add some avocado for an extra dose of healthy fats.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor, but you can substitute it with yellow mustard, spicy mustard, or even a whole grain mustard depending on your taste.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

For a creamier dressing, use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of low-fat or non-fat versions. You can also increase the amount of mayonnaise for a richer texture.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! This salad is low in carbs, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It is packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats, and the Greek yogurt dressing keeps it light yet satisfying.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! This salad is versatile, and you can add other veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even celery to customize it to your taste.

Can I freeze this salad?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and freezing is not recommended. Freezing may alter the texture of the vegetables and dressing.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes in the dressing or mix in a finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Low Carb Broccoli Cucumber Salad is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal or a refreshing side. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and crunchy pine nuts makes this a standout dish for any occasion. With its versatility, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, and it’s a great option for those on a low-carb or keto diet. Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is sure to please!

Low Carb Broccoli Cucumber Salad