Tangy Broccoli Apple Sliders

Name: Tangy Broccoli Apple Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped broccoli; 1 large apple, cored and finely chopped; 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or yogurt; 1 teaspoon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns (whole grain recommended)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating recipes that are not just healthy but also bursting with flavor. These Tangy Broccoli Apple Sliders are a perfect example of that. The combination of crunchy broccoli and sweet apple creates a surprising yet delightful pairing that will please both kids and adults alike. Quick to make and perfect for any time of day, these sliders can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as part of a light meal. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to add them to your regular rotation!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:25:08.883Z

When I first decided to combine broccoli with apples, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. Initially, I thought it might be an odd pairing, but it turned out to be a hit! The freshness of the broccoli brings a nice crunch, while the apple adds just the right amount of sweetness. I've also played around with different toppings, like tangy yogurt sauce, which elevates these sliders even further.

One key tip I learned while developing this recipe is to finely chop the broccoli so it blends seamlessly with the apples, making every bite a perfect mix of textures and flavors. Also, when I used fresh herbs like dill, it added an extra layer of brightness that we absolutely loved. If you’re looking for a fun and nutritious appetizer, these sliders are your answer!

Why You Will Love These Sliders
A delightful blend of crunchy broccoli and sweet apple
Quick to prepare and perfect for any meal or snack
Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor

The Role of Broccoli and Apple

Broccoli is not only a nutritious powerhouse, rich in vitamins K and C, but it also provides a satisfying crunch that balances the sweet juiciness of apple. This pairing creates a refreshing taste that elevates the sliders beyond a typical snack. When chopping the broccoli, aim for fine pieces to integrate seamlessly with the apple, ensuring every bite has a harmonious mix of flavors and textures.

Apples can vary in sweetness and tartness depending on the variety you choose. For this recipe, I recommend using a crisp apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji for their balanced flavor and firm texture. If you prefer a tangier bite, Granny Smith apples work wonderfully as well. Just make sure to remove the core completely and chop finely to avoid any unpalatable chunks.

Assembly and Customization Tips

When assembling the sliders, consider toasting the buns lightly in a skillet or oven for added texture and flavor. A golden-brown finish enhances the overall appearance and provides an appealing contrast to the creamy filling. If you're in a rush, you can skip this step, but I find that a moment of toasting really makes a difference.

Feel free to customize your sliders! You can add additional ingredients like thinly sliced cucumber for extra crunch or even a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the freshness. If you're looking for a vegan option, swap the mayonnaise for avocado or a vegan yogurt alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your slaw:

For the Sliders

1 cup finely chopped broccoli
1 large apple, cored and finely chopped
1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or yogurt
1 teaspoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns (whole grain recommended)

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring everything is well combined.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Tangy Broccoli Apple Sliders:

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, apple, cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, and salt and pepper until combined.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice your slider buns in half and layer the broccoli-apple mixture generously on the bottom half of each bun.

Finish and Serve

Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. You can also refrigerate them for a cool treat later.

Enjoy your sliders with a side of fresh veggies or chips for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the filling mixture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Tangy Broccoli Apple Sliders are ideal for meal prep. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to assemble the sliders right before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy.

If you have leftover filling, it can be easily repurposed! Enjoy it as a spread on whole-grain crackers or as a filling for wraps. Keep the filling in the refrigerator for up to three days, but note that the apples may begin to brown. To prevent this, try tossing them with a little lemon juice before mixing them with the rest of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders work beautifully as a light lunch, and you can pair them with a side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them as an appetizer at parties. Just cut the slider buns into quarters, and position them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re sure to be a hit with both children and adults alike!

For an added kick, consider serving the sliders with a tangy dipping sauce. A simple mix of Greek yogurt with a splash of vinegar and a hint of honey can complement the flavors of the filling, creating a delightful combination. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces to match your taste preferences; honey mustard or a spicy sriracha mayo would also be fantastic options.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Are there any substitutions for cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.

→ What other toppings work well with these sliders?

Sliced avocado, sprouts, or a splash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor!

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

While it's best to serve them fresh, you can freeze the filling separately. Just assemble the sliders when you're ready to serve.