The Best Broccoli Salad
This vibrant, crunchy salad combines fresh broccoli, creamy dressing, and a variety of additions for a delicious side dish that is easy to make and perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad 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)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- 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
For added crunch, toast the sunflower seeds or almonds before adding them to the salad. Feel free to mix in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or shredded carrots, for extra color and nutrients. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess. This salad is also vegetarian-friendly if you omit the bacon.