This colorful broccoli salad is fresh and crunchy, making it a great side dish. Tossed with a creamy dressing, it’s packed with flavor and a hint of sweetness from the raisins.
Honestly, who knew broccoli could be so fun? I love how easy it is to whip up. It’s like bringing a little party to the table, and everyone loves a good crunch! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are a must for this salad. If you can’t find fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli works too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Red Onion: Diced red onion adds a nice color and sharpness. If you’re sensitive to raw onion’s bite, try using green onions or shallots instead, which are milder.
Dried Cranberries/Raisins: I love using dried cranberries for their tartness. If you prefer something less sweet, opt for raisins or even chopped apples for a fresh twist.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a delightful crunch! You can substitute pumpkin seeds or nuts like almonds or pecans if you have allergies.
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives a savory flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas or omit it altogether.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy tang. If it’s not your style, goat cheese or even shredded cheddar would work well!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth?
Getting the dressing just right makes the salad shine. Here’s how to mix it smoothly:
- Start with mayonnaise in a small bowl. The creaminess is key!
- Add apple cider vinegar for tang and sugar for sweetness. This balance is what makes it delicious!
- Whisk together until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Always taste as you go to tailor it to your liking!
Making the dressing from scratch really boosts the flavor, so take your time blending it well!
Easy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and making the dressing. After that, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to combine beautifully. So, in total, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but most of that time is just waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the fresh broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into bite-sized florets, making sure they’re small and easy to eat. Place the cut broccoli in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Add the diced red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins), sunflower seeds, chopped cooked bacon, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) into the bowl with the broccoli. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything nicely.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. This will be your creamy dressing! Add salt and black pepper to taste, mixing it until it’s smooth and well blended.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli salad ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients get coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes for a refreshing dish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to make sure everything is mixed well. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve cold and enjoy this delicious, crunchy broccoli salad!
FAQ for Easy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sunflower seeds, feel free to substitute them with chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each will add a nice crunch to the salad!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a tahini dressing. Omit the bacon or use crispy chickpeas for added texture, and skip the feta or choose a plant-based cheese alternative.
Is It Possible to Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just prepare everything as instructed, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop, making it even more delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
