Asian Healthy Broccoli Salad

Whether as a side or your main meal, this Healthy Asian Broccoli Salad is a delicious, everyday recipe you’ll come back to again and again!

When it comes to food, I’m a sucker for anything Asian. Of course, Asian is a broad term, covering everything from chicken curry to Chicken Katsu. Every region has its own unique ingredients and techniques. And guess what happens when all these delicious dishes come to America? Even simple things like a broccoli salad get a lot more interesting.

Okay, so maybe I’m sensationalizing this Asian-inspired salad a bit, but it’s true. Immigrants bring so many flavors with them, and the culinary world is better for it. It’s one of the reasons I love this country so much—the food tells a story. Who would’ve thought to make a dressing from soy sauce, ginger, and rice vinegar? And then to add agave for a touch of sweetness? It’s a unique pairing—agave and soy sauce don’t usually cross paths, considering their roots in Mexican and Japanese cuisines. But together, they create a balanced, salty-sweet dressing. That’s pretty awesome, right?

Broccoli salads have been popular in many variations, but this one is perhaps my favorite. Ingredients like water chestnuts and roasted peanuts add a crunch that I’ll take over croutons any day. And guess what? My kids like this salad, too—though I’m lucky that they’re also fans of broccoli! 

The combination of crisp broccoli florets, crunchy cabbage, and a creamy, slightly spicy peanut dressing keeps me coming back for more. Even better, this salad is as easy to make as it is to eat.  Enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a meal prep option for the work week!

Is Asian Broccoli Salad Healthy?

Is that a trick question? This salad is a nutrient powerhouse, from the fiber and vitamins in broccoli and cabbage to the healthy fats in the peanut (or almond) butter dressing. Broccoli alone is a source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The natural peanut butter in the dressing also provides healthy fats. You can also tweak the ingredients if you’re following a Paleo or gluten-free diet. Simply swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos and use honey in place of agave.

Marinate and Mix

Meats are not the only thing that benefits from a little marinating. So, after adding the dressing, allow the salad to marinate for at least an hour in the fridge. Personally, I like to give it about three hours. The broccoli absorbs the dressing, giving it a huge flavor upgrade. Also, don’t skimp on mixing— a thorough toss will ensure the peanut dressing coats every bite!

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a great standalone meal, but it also pairs well with a variety of dishes. When I want to serve an Asian-inspired spread, I’ll add Air-Fryer Wontons, Fried Spring Rolls, or a Dumpling Soup to the menu. For a protein-rich dinner, try it with Honey-Garlic Chicken or Air-Fryer Teriyaki Salmon!

Recipe