Delicious Roasted Broccoli Salad Recipe

A warm, nutrient-packed salad with bold flavors and a tangy lemon-garlic vinaigrette.

This roasted broccoli salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any cozy meal. Roasting broccoli with sweet shallots brings out a deep, caramelized richness, while feta cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries add layers of texture and taste. Tossed in a bright lemon-garlic vinaigrette, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • Rich in nutrients–Broccoli is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that support heart, gut, and immune health.

  • Balanced flavors and textures–The combination of roasted vegetables, creamy feta, crunchy seeds, and sweet-tart cranberries makes every bite delicious.

  • Easy to customize–Swap in raisins, dried apricots, pomegranate seeds, or almonds for a seasonal twist.

Nutrition Highlights

This salad isn’t just tasty it’s full of health benefits:

  • Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help lower blood pressure and support bone health.

  • Shallots belong to the onion family and contain compounds that can reduce inflammation and disease risk.

  • Feta cheese adds calcium and protein, though if you’re watching your sodium intake, you can swap it for goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces (about 6½ cups)

  • 4 medium shallots, peeled and quartered

  • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest

  • 1½ tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp dry mustard

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp ground pepper

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 tbsp unsalted roasted sunflower seeds

  • 2 tbsp unsweetened dried cranberries

Directions

  1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place broccoli and shallots on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, toss to coat, and spread into an even layer. Roast until broccoli is bright green and slightly charred, about 18–20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes.

  2. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil, whisking continuously until emulsified (about 2–3 minutes).

  3. Assemble the salad: Transfer the roasted broccoli and shallots to a large bowl. Pour in the vinaigrette and toss well to coat.

  4. Finish with toppings: Sprinkle with feta, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Broccoli Salad

Even roasting: Spread the shallots evenly on the baking sheet so they caramelize properly.
Let it cool slightly: Adding feta too soon will cause it to melt wait a few minutes before tossing.
Customize it: Try topping with toasted sesame seeds and tahini or swapping cranberries for chopped almonds and a drizzle of honey.

Storing and Serving Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Best served warm or at room temperature avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

The Bottom Line

This roasted broccoli salad is a delicious, nutrient-dense dish that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you serve it as a side or enjoy it on its own, it’s a simple way to add more veggies to your meals.

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