I’ve always loved a good broccoli salad that’s quick to toss together yet feels special enough for any occasion. This creamy broccoli salad became my go-to—whether I need a simple side for a busy weeknight or something fresh and crunchy for a family barbecue. With its satisfying crunch and tangy-sweet dressing, it always wins over the crowd.
Table of Contents
broccoli salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and mix well.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
Why This is the Only Broccoli Salad Recipe You’ll Ever Need
- Foolproof and easy to prepare, perfect even for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
- Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors thanks to the unique dressing blend.
- Customizable mix-ins that provide crunch, smokiness, and sweetness all in one bite.
- Stays fresh and flavorful after chilling, making it great for meal prep or parties.
Key Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Salad
This broccoli salad features simple, fresh ingredients thoughtfully combined to create layers of flavor and texture. Here’s why each plays a star role in making it so irresistible.
The Broccoli
Fresh broccoli is the foundation here. Choose firm, bright green heads with tight florets. Cutting into bite-sized florets makes every forkful easy to enjoy. If you wonder about using stems, they can be included if peeled and chopped small, but florets remain the preferred choice for texture. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, and also contains antioxidants and is low in calories.
The Creamy Dressing
The dressing blends mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar to deliver that signature creamy texture balanced by a subtle tang and sweetness. This combination ties all the ingredients together and keeps the salad refreshingly light without overpowering.
The Mix-Ins
Smoked beef bacon bits add a savory, smoky crunch. Dried cranberries provide bursts of sweetness. Sunflower seeds give a nutty crispness. Red onion adds a mild sharpness that perks up every bite. Together, they create a symphony of textures and flavors that elevate this broccoli salad beyond the ordinary.
Essential Tools
To make this salad with ease, you’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl for tossing everything together comfortably.
- A sharp knife for chopping broccoli florets and dicing onion neatly.
- A whisk to blend the dressing until smooth.
- Optional: A salad spinner or clean kitchen towels to thoroughly dry the broccoli, crucial to prevent watery salad.
How to Make Broccoli Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this broccoli salad is refreshingly simple and within reach for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these straightforward steps to enjoy a delicious end result.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets. This ensures consistent texture and easy eating. Also, dice the red onion finely and have the dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and smoked beef bacon bits ready. Organizing everything first makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
Whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and creamy, so the flavors meld well and the dressing coats the salad ingredients perfectly.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli, diced onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and smoked beef bacon bits together. Pour the dressing over and mix well to coat everything evenly. Refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors blend beautifully before serving.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Broccoli Salad Every Time
- Let It Chill: Refrigerate for a minimum of one hour to develop rich flavor and meld the ingredients.
- Prevent a Watery Salad: Dry your broccoli thoroughly after washing to avoid excess moisture.
- Cut Broccoli Evenly: Bite-sized pieces make every forkful balanced and delightful.
- Make it Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, ideal for meal prep or parties.
Variations and Customizations
Make this broccoli salad truly your own by trying these simple swaps and additions:
| To Make It… | Substitution/Addition | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lighter & Tangier | Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise | Reduces calories and adds protein with tang |
| Nut-Free | Replace sunflower seeds with pepitas | Keeps crunch without nuts |
| Extra Cheesy | Add shredded cheddar cheese | Adds richness and melty texture |
| Sweeter | Mix in halved grapes | Boosts natural sweetness and juiciness |
| Mayo-Free | Use a vinaigrette (olive oil + vinegar) | For a lighter, oil-based dressing option |
What to Serve with Broccoli Salad
For a Classic BBQ
Serve alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork, or juicy burgers to balance smoky, savory meats with fresh crunch.
For a Holiday Feast
Pair it with baked ham, roast turkey, or during Easter brunch for a bright, flavorful side that complements festive mains.
For a Light Lunch
Enjoy it solo, with a scoop of tuna salad, or beside a simple sandwich for an easy, satisfying midday meal.
How to Store Broccoli Salad
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for 3-4 days but is best enjoyed within the first two days. Avoid freezing broccoli salad — the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate and get watery when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I blanch the broccoli for broccoli salad?
Raw broccoli gives the best crunch and texture in this recipe, so blanching isn’t necessary. If you prefer softer broccoli, blanch for 1 minute in boiling water, then immediately cool in an ice bath to stop cooking.
How do you keep broccoli salad from getting watery?
The key is thoroughly drying broccoli after washing. Use a salad spinner or pat with paper towels to remove all moisture before mixing with dressing.
How do I easily double or halve this recipe?
This recipe scales easily. Simply adjust ingredient amounts by doubling or halving. If using a recipe card with a serving size adjuster, that’s handy too.
Conclusion
This creamy broccoli salad is genuinely that simple and satisfying. It perfectly balances creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and sweet-savory mix-ins, making it a staple side you’ll reach for time and again. What’s your favorite occasion to bring a classic broccoli salad to? Or do you have a secret mix-in you love? Let me know in the comments below, I love hearing from you! And if you try this recipe, please leave a rating—your feedback means the world to me.
