Broccoli Salad is a delicious combination of fresh, crunchy broccoli florets, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing. This easy salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing side dish to any meal. It’s quick to make, and the flavors meld beautifully together for a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook Notes
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Chill

Cover and refrigerate the Broccoli Salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

Give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy chilled.

Cook Notes

• Broccoli: For extra crunch, use raw broccoli. You can also blanch the broccoli briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and cool for a more tender texture.
• Bacon: For convenience, you can use store-bought bacon bits, but freshly cooked bacon adds the best flavor.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Variations

1. Nutty Broccoli Salad

Replace the sunflower seeds with toasted sliced almonds or chopped walnuts for a nutty twist.

2. Sweet and Tangy Broccoli Salad

Add 1/4 cup raisins along with the dried cranberries and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard to the dressing for a sweet and tangy flavor.

3. Vegan Broccoli Salad

Use vegan mayonnaise and omit the bacon, or substitute it with crispy smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

• Main Dish Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a balanced meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring to a potluck or barbecue—this salad is always a hit.
• Lunch Option: Enjoy as a light lunch on its own or with a piece of crusty bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! Broccoli Salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give the salad a good stir before serving again.

Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Absolutely! You can use feta, goat cheese, or even shredded mozzarella in place of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Broccoli Salad is a versatile, refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy dressing, crunchy bacon, and sweet cranberries, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures!

Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!