Introduction

This Best Broccoli Salad is a fresh and flavorful side dish, perfect for gatherings or a quick healthy snack. It combines crisp broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing and a delightful mix of sweet and savory ingredients.

Best Broccoli Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
⅓ cup chopped red onion
½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
⅓ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: In a large bowl, add the finely chopped broccoli, chopped bacon, red onions, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly.
Step 4: Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
Swap out dried cranberries for raisins or chopped apples for a different fruity twist.
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.
Make sure to chop the broccoli into small, bite-size pieces to ensure every bite is flavorful and easy to eat.

Storage

Store the broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture and flavor, toss the salad again before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may cause the dressing and broccoli to separate or become soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, it’s best to prepare the salad a few hours ahead and chill it for 1 to 2 hours to develop the flavors. However, avoid making it more than a day ahead to keep the broccoli crisp.

Can I make this salad vegan?

You can make a vegan version by using vegan mayonnaise and skipping the bacon or replacing it with crispy tempeh or smoked coconut flakes.

Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 150 reviews

A crisp and flavorful broccoli salad featuring a tangy mayonnaise dressing, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and savory bacon, perfect as a refreshing side dish or potluck favorite.

Author: Stella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (to cook bacon if not pre-cooked)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Salad

1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
⅓ cup chopped red onion
½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
⅓ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy, tangy dressing.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the finely chopped broccoli florets, chopped crispy bacon, chopped red onion, sweetened dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture, then toss thoroughly to coat all the salad components with the dressing evenly.
Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
Serve: Give the salad one final toss before serving chilled, ensuring an even distribution of dressing and toppings for the best taste and texture.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad chill at least 1 hour before serving to allow the dressing to soak into the broccoli and other ingredients.
You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or dried cherries if preferred.
To make this salad gluten-free, ensure the bacon and other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
For a lighter version, use a low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of regular mayonnaise.
Toast the sliced almonds lightly before adding for enhanced nutty flavor.

Keywords: broccoli salad, broccoli salad recipe, summer salad, bacon broccoli salad, easy broccoli salad, side dish, potluck salad