Classic Broccoli Salad

Looking for the ultimate crowed pleasing side dish? This classic broccoli salad is loaded with vibrant flavor, bold texture, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. It’s crunchy, crispy and tossed together in a creamy homemade dressing that brings everything together.

This isn’t your typical leafy green salad. This broccoli salad holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. No soggy greens- just crunchy veggies, crispy bacon and bold flavor in every forkful. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or bringing it to a picnic, potluck, or summer BBQ, this hearty make-ahead salad only gets better with time as the flavors meld.

Customize this broccoli salad with tasty add-ins like crispy bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, or your favorite cheese. This versatile broccoli salad is endlessly adaptable to your taste.

YOU WILL LOVE THIS SIMPLE BROCCOLI SALAD

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep to make this salad.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better as the flavors mend over time.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for picnics, potlucks, BBQs or as a side to any meal.
• Customizable: Mix and match your favorite dried fruit, nuts and seeds.

INGREDIENTS

• Broccoli: Raw, crisp broccoli is the main ingredient in the salad. Chop into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and maximum flavor in every bite.
• Red Onion: Finely diced onion adds a subtle crunch, sharp flavor, and a pop of color.
• Crispy Bacon: This protein adds smokey, savory flavor and crispy texture. Cook until crisp, and crumble before adding.
• Sharp-Cheddar Cheese: Bold and creamy in flavor. For best results, use a block of cheddar and cube it yourself for fresher taste and better texture.
• Dried-Cranberries: These add sweet and tart contrast that balances the savory bacon.
• Sunflower Seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds give this salad a nutty crunch. You can substitute with pumpkin seeds, or sliced almonds.
• Mayonnaise: Use a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise for a creamy flavorful base.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the dressing and adds subtle fruity flavor.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that balances the tang from the vinegar.
• Freshly-Cracked Black Pepper: Add to taste.

HOW TO MAKE BROCCOLI SALAD

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking your bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. You can bake it in the oven or cook it on the stovetop—whichever you prefer. Once cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prep the Broccoli: Rinse and chop the fresh broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the Mix-ins: Finely dice the red onion and cube the sharp cheddar cheese.
4. Add Fruit & Seed: Toss in the dried cranberries and toasted sunflower seeds.
5. Make the Creamy Dressing: in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
6. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, bacon, red onion, cheese, dried-cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

ALTERNATIVE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS

1. Veggie Options:
   • Use green onions instead for milder onion flavor.
   • Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
2. Fruit Options: Replace dried cranberries with raisins, dried cherries or chopped dried apricots.
3. Nuts & Seeds: Try pumpkin seeds, sliced almonds, or chopped pecans or extra crunch.

CLASSIC BROCCOLI SALAD TIPS

• For best flavor: Cover and chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. It gets even better as the flavors meld together!
• Storage: Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Just be sure to give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing!

MORE RECIPES TO ENJOY:

Classic Egg Salad

Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe