The Best Broccoli Salad : Crunchy Family Favorite Recipe
This Best Broccoli Salad is a crunchy, flavorful family favorite combining fresh broccoli florets with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for gatherings or a light, healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute (optional blanching)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- ½ cup precooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
Dressing Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. For a slightly softer texture, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve crunch.
- Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, precooked bacon, finely diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds), and dried cranberries (or raisins). Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Everything: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss thoroughly until every component is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill nicely, enhancing taste and texture.
Notes
- For a softer broccoli texture, blanch briefly before mixing.
- Sunflower seeds can be substituted with chopped almonds or walnuts for different nutty flavors.
- Honey can be replaced with sugar if preferred.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be prepared a few hours in advance.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste based on dietary preferences.
Keywords: broccoli salad, crunchy salad, family favorite salad, broccoli with bacon, creamy broccoli salad, healthy side dish
