Broccoli Salad

Published: July 7, 2025

by Sabrina

A Broccoli Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together fresh flavors and crunchy textures. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or a simple weeknight dinner. With its combination of savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This broccoli salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Flavorful Mix: The blend of bacon, cranberries, and cheddar creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or even as a light meal on its own.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from broccoli and healthy fats from sunflower seeds.
Make Ahead Option: It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld.

Tools and Preparation

For this broccoli salad recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Ensures that your dressing is well-blended and smooth for even coating on the 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, this was about 2 ½ heads of broccoli for me (450g))
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (thicker, not finely shredded (115g))
⅔ cup dried cranberries ((85g))
½ cup crumbled bacon² ((60g))
½ cup salted sunflower seeds ((60g))
⅓ cup red onion (diced into small pieces (50g))

For the Dressing

¾ cup mayo (I use olive oil mayo (175g))
¼ cup sour cream³ ((70g))
1 ½ Tablespoon white wine vinegar⁴
3 Tablespoons sugar ((40g))
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Broccoli florets
Sharp cheddar cheese
Dried cranberries
Crumbled bacon
Salted sunflower seeds
Diced red onion

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
Mayo
Sour cream
White wine vinegar
Sugar
Salt
Pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dressing with Salad

Pour the dressing over the combined salad ingredients.
Toss or stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, refrigerate the broccoli salad for at least one hour before serving.
Toss again before serving. Keep refrigerated if not consuming right away.

This broccoli salad recipe will surely become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals. It pairs well with many main courses and can also be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing snack.

As a Side Dish

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken enhances the crunchy textures of broccoli salad.
Fish Tacos: The fresh taste of fish tacos matches perfectly with the tangy flavors in the salad.
Pork Chops: Serve alongside pan-seared pork chops for a delightful contrast between savory and sweet.

At a Picnic

Sandwiches: Pair with turkey or ham sandwiches for a complete outdoor meal.
Wraps: Include in your spread with wraps filled with fresh veggies and deli meats.
Chips: Enjoy with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun texture combination.

For Meal Prep

Lunch Boxes: Pack broccoli salad in lunch boxes for an easy grab-and-go option.
Potluck Parties: It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad

To elevate your broccoli salad to new heights, consider these helpful tips.

Flavors: Add more ingredients like feta cheese or olives to enhance the overall taste.
Crunch Factor: Try adding chopped apples or pears for extra crunch and sweetness.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for an aromatic touch.
Chill Time: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for better flavor integration.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad can be complemented by various delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds warmth and richness to your meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: This healthy grain dish provides protein and complements the salad’s textures.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate.
Coleslaw: This crunchy counterpart offers a different flavor profile while maintaining freshness.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans make for an excellent comfort food pairing.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness that balances the savory elements of broccoli salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making broccoli salad, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Ignoring Freshness: Always use fresh broccoli florets. Wilted or old broccoli can ruin your salad’s flavor and texture.
Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little, and add more as needed for desired flavor.
Skipping the Chill Time: Not refrigerating the salad before serving can lead to a less developed flavor. Aim for at least an hour in the fridge.
Not Customizing Ingredients: Sticking strictly to the recipe might limit flavor. Feel free to add nuts, different cheeses, or even fruits based on your taste preferences.
Forgetting Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can leave your salad bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store broccoli salad in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the broccoli and other ingredients.
If necessary, you could freeze individual components like bacon or cheese separately.

Reheating Broccoli Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making broccoli salad that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Broccoli Salad?

Broccoli salad pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or as part of a potluck spread.

How long does Broccoli Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like apples, grapes, or nuts to create a unique twist that suits your taste.

Final Thoughts

This broccoli salad recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. With its crispy textures and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch. Enjoy this delightful dish at gatherings or simply as a fresh side!