A delightful Broccoli Salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a simple side dish for dinner. This recipe features crisp broccoli florets combined with savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing that brings everything together. Not only is this salad easy to make, but it also bursts with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy the crunch and taste that makes this dish a standout!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of bacon, cranberries, and cheese adds a unique sweetness and richness.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at gatherings or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch.
Health Benefits: Packed with fiber and vitamins from broccoli, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
Make Ahead Option: It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for an hour, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Broccoli Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your preparation is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Essential for smoothly blending the dressing ingredients together.
Cutting board: A stable surface for slicing vegetables safely.

Ingredients

A simple broccoli salad recipe made with bacon, cranberries, and other simple add-ins! Be sure to check out the recipe tutorial video!

Fresh Ingredients

5-6 cups broccoli florets (1 lb; about 2 ½ heads of broccoli) (450g)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (thicker, not finely shredded) (115g)
⅔ cup dried cranberries (85g)
½ cup crumbled bacon (60g)
½ cup salted sunflower seeds (60g)
⅓ cup red onion, diced into small pieces (50g)

Dressing Ingredients

¾ cup mayo (I use olive oil mayo) (175g)
¼ cup sour cream (70g)
1 ½ Tablespoon white wine vinegar
3 Tablespoons sugar (40g)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
Broccoli florets
Cheddar cheese
Dried cranberries
Crumbled bacon
Salted sunflower seeds
Diced red onion

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
Mayo
Sour cream
White wine vinegar
Sugar
Salt
Pepper
Ensure the dressing is smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
Toss or stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
Toss thoroughly again before serving if desired.

Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Broccoli Salad!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, the right serving suggestions can elevate this salad’s appeal.

As a Side Dish

Perfect alongside grilled meats, like chicken or steak.
Adds a refreshing crunch to any barbecue spread.

In a Wrap

Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for added flavor and texture.
Pairs well with turkey or ham slices.

On a Buffet Table

A colorful addition to buffet-style meals, ideal for potlucks.
Guests can serve themselves and enjoy at their own pace.

Mixed with Other Salads

Combine with pasta or quinoa salads for a hearty meal.
Enhances both flavor and nutritional content.

As a Light Lunch

Serve chilled with crackers or pita chips for a quick lunch option.
Great for meal prep; just store in individual containers.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

To make your broccoli salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh broccoli florets for the best crunch and flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust sugar, salt, or vinegar if needed.
Add Texture: Incorporate additional ingredients like nuts or seeds for extra crunch and health benefits.
Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings like yogurt-based options for a lighter version of broccoli salad.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Complementing your broccoli salad with other side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken pairs excellently with the crunchy textures of the broccoli salad.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a contrasting flavor that balances the savory elements of the salad.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add heartiness to your meal and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness that complements the richness of the broccoli salad dressing.
Coleslaw: Another crunchy option, coleslaw adds variety and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can be filled with grains and protein, making them filling companions to your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making broccoli salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

Skipping the chill time: Not refrigerating the broccoli salad before serving can result in a less flavorful dish. Always allow at least one hour for the flavors to meld.
Using finely shredded cheese: Finely shredded cheese can melt into the salad, affecting texture. Opt for thicker cheddar pieces for a better bite.
Ignoring ingredient ratios: Too much or too little dressing can overwhelm or under-season your broccoli salad. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
Cutting broccoli too large: If broccoli florets are too big, they can be hard to eat and mix. Aim for bite-sized pieces for easier serving and enjoying.
Forgetting to toss thoroughly: A quick stir isn’t enough! Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store broccoli salad in an airtight container.
It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the ingredients.
If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving again.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered.
Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat on low in a pan, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious broccoli salad recipe:

What can I add to my Broccoli Salad?

You can enhance your broccoli salad with extras like nuts, seeds, or different cheeses. Try adding almonds or feta cheese for more flavor!

Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead allows flavors to develop even more. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Is Broccoli Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This broccoli salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and offers healthy fats from bacon and sunflower seeds.

How do I customize my Broccoli Salad?

Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences! You could use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or add seasonal fruits like apples or grapes.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday feasts. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and relish in its deliciousness!

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Broccoli Salad

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Broccoli Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines the crunch of fresh broccoli with savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy dressing. This delightful salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, potluck, or a simple weeknight dinner. With its vibrant mix of textures and tastes, this Broccoli Salad will surely be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and health benefits that come together in this wholesome recipe!

Ingredients

Scale

5–6 cups broccoli florets
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
⅔ cup dried cranberries
½ cup crumbled bacon
½ cup salted sunflower seeds
⅓ cup red onion
¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, salted sunflower seeds, and diced red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving for optimal flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American