Description
This Perfect Broccoli Salad is a crunchy, creamy, and nutritious dish made with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, dried cranberries, and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any gathering or a light meal on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli – Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the broccoli for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then drain and cool.
- Chop the Onion – Dice the red onion finely to add a mild sharpness to the salad.
- Cook the Bacon – If using fresh bacon, cook until crispy and crumble it into small pieces.
- Mix the Dressing – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli, onion, bacon, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Dressing – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Dairy-Free – Omit the cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt or mayo alternative.
- Vegan – Skip the bacon or replace it with smoky tempeh bits.
- Keto-Friendly – Substitute dried cranberries with chopped nuts and use a sugar-free sweetener.
- Extra Crunch – Add chopped apples, roasted pumpkin seeds, or crushed cashews.
- Tangy Twist – Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a citrusy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli salad, easy salad recipe, healthy side dish, no-cook salad, creamy broccoli salad