The Best Broccoli Salad Recipe
Introduction
This broccoli salad is a delightful combination of crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors that make it a perfect side dish for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients that bring a refreshing twist to your usual salad routine.
Ingredients
- 8 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup bacon bits
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set the dressing aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Step 3: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the broccoli to crisp up nicely.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds.
- Swap bacon bits for cooked and crumbled bacon for a fresher, smokier taste.
- To lighten the dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, you might want to keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving if preparing in advance. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold and don’t require reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Fresh broccoli is preferred for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can make the salad soggy.
Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this salad holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a convenient option for meal prepping. Just be aware that the broccoli may soften over time.
Print
The Best Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and crunchy broccoli salad combining fresh broccoli florets, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and savory bacon bits, all tossed in a tangy mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup bacon bits
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the bite-sized broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the broccoli to slightly soften for a perfect texture.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute regular mayonnaise with light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- To keep the salad gluten-free, ensure bacon bits are gluten-free or use cooked chopped bacon.
- You can add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- The salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Adjust sweetness or acidity of the dressing by modifying sugar or apple cider vinegar amounts to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli salad, healthy salad, no-cook salad, cranberry salad, bacon salad, summer side dish
