Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors with a satisfying crunch. This recipe features crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy dressing to create a perfect side for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or a simple weeknight dinner, this broccoli salad brings vibrant colors and tastes to your table. Its unique blend of ingredients ensures that each bite is both refreshing and hearty.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Dressing
• How to Make Broccoli Salad
• Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients
• Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 3: Mix Everything Together
• Step 4: Chill Before Serving
• How to Serve Broccoli Salad
• As a Standalone Dish
• With Grilled Meats
• At Potlucks and Picnics
• With Sandwiches
• On a Buffet Table
• How to Perfect Broccoli Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Broccoli Salad
• Reheating Broccoli Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Broccoli Salad recipe special?
• Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?
• How do I make my Broccoli Salad healthier?
• How long does Broccoli Salad stay fresh?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This broccoli salad can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of bacon, cranberries, and cheddar cheese adds layers of flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for picnics, barbecues, or holiday meals; it complements various main courses beautifully.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from broccoli and healthy fats from sunflower seeds, this salad is both delicious and nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make this broccoli salad efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help you chop ingredients accurately and mix everything seamlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures that the dressing is well mixed for a smooth consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps to chop vegetables evenly for the best texture in your salad.

Ingredients

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

For the Salad

• 5-6 cups broccoli florets¹ (1 lb)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (thicker, not finely shredded)
• ⅔ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup crumbled bacon²
• ½ cup salted sunflower seeds
• ⅓ cup red onion (diced into small pieces)

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup mayo (I use olive oil mayo)
• ¼ cup sour cream³
• 1 ½ Tablespoon white wine vinegar⁴
• 3 Tablespoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, bacon, sunflower seeds, and red onion.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Continue whisking until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

1. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
2. Toss or stir well to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

1. Although you can serve the broccoli salad immediately, it’s best to refrigerate it for at least one hour.
2. Before serving, toss the salad once more to refresh its texture.

Enjoy your deliciously fresh Broccoli Salad!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your broccoli salad experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.
• Pair it with crusty bread for a light lunch option.

With Grilled Meats

• This broccoli salad goes well with grilled chicken or steak.
• The savory flavors of the bacon and cheese enhance the smoky taste of grilled meats.

At Potlucks and Picnics

• It’s an excellent choice for potlucks due to its crowd-pleasing nature.
• The salad’s ingredients hold up well, making it ideal for outdoor events.

With Sandwiches

• Enjoy it alongside hearty sandwiches like club or BLT.
• The crunch adds texture to your meal, balancing soft sandwich fillings.

On a Buffet Table

• Use it as a colorful side on a buffet-style spread.
• This dish adds visual appeal and is easy to serve in larger quantities.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

To create the best broccoli salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets provide the best crunch and vibrant color. Avoid wilted or yellowing pieces for optimal taste.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour ensures the flavors meld beautifully. It also enhances the overall freshness.
• Mix in seasonal ingredients: During summer, consider adding fruits like apples or grapes for extra sweetness. In fall, nuts can add warmth and depth.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to modify the mayo and sour cream proportions based on your preference for creaminess. A bit more vinegar can add tang if desired.
• Add protein: For a heartier dish, include cooked quinoa or shredded rotisserie chicken. This makes it suitable as a main dish rather than just a side.
• Garnish creatively: Top with additional sunflower seeds or crispy bacon before serving for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some top choices:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn complements the savory notes of broccoli salad beautifully.
2. Classic Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw make it an excellent contrast to creamy broccoli salad.
3. Baked Beans: The hearty sweetness of baked beans balances the crunchiness of the salad, creating a satisfying plate.
4. Potato Salad: A traditional potato salad brings comfort and familiarity, making it perfect for gatherings alongside broccoli salad.
5. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy bites add a delightful vegetable element while maintaining similar flavors found in the salad.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide depth and richness that pair well with fresh broccoli flavors.
7. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit medley offers refreshing balance against the savory elements in your meal.
8. Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side adds warmth and richness, rounding out your dining experience beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious broccoli salad, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the broccoli – Cooking broccoli too long makes it mushy. Blanch it for just a couple of minutes to keep it crisp.
• Ignoring the dressing balance – Too much mayonnaise can overpower the salad. Use a balanced ratio of mayo and sour cream for a creamy yet tangy flavor.
• Not letting it chill – Serving immediately may not let flavors meld. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving for better taste.
• Skipping toppings – Toppings like bacon and sunflower seeds add texture and flavor. Don’t skip these essential ingredients!
• Using finely shredded cheese – Finely shredded cheese can clump together in the salad. Opt for thicker cuts for better distribution throughout.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store broccoli salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the salad.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Broccoli Salad recipe special?

This broccoli salad combines crispy textures with sweet and savory flavors. The addition of bacon and cranberries creates a delightful contrast that makes each bite enjoyable.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like nuts, seeds, or different cheeses. This recipe is versatile and welcomes personal touches.

How do I make my Broccoli Salad healthier?

To make it healthier, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the sugar amount. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

How long does Broccoli Salad stay fresh?

In the refrigerator, broccoli salad stays fresh for about 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This easy broccoli salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as a side dish or a light meal. Its vibrant colors and crunch appeal to everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!