Broccoli salad is a refreshing and delicious side dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. It combines crisp, fresh broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing and a delightful mix of textures from crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruit, and crispy bacon. This salad is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and bacon.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
FAQs:
Can I make broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to blend.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is best for this recipe, as frozen broccoli tends to be too soft for a crunchy salad.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Notes and More:
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey or sugar.
- For extra crunch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts.
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with smoked almonds for a similar flavor.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Enjoy this simple, yet irresistible broccoli salad at your next gathering!
The Best Broccoli Salad
Description
Broccoli salad is a refreshing and delicious side dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. It combines crisp, fresh broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing and a delightful mix of textures from crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruit, and crispy bacon. This salad is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and bacon.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey or sugar.
- For extra crunch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts.
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with smoked almonds for a similar flavor.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
