Here’s a recipe for The Best Broccoli Salad—crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor 🥦✨
The Best Broccoli Salad
Ingredients (serves 6–8)
For the salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4–5 slices)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts (optional)
For the dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the broccoli:
- Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Optional: blanch for 1 minute in boiling water for a milder crunch, then shock in ice water.
- Mix the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cranberries, bacon, cheese, and seeds.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving so flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Toss lightly again before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Salad
- Bacon: Cook until crisp for best texture.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, but Gouda or Colby are great alternatives.
- Make ahead: This salad improves after a few hours in the fridge but is best eaten within 24 hours.
- Crunch factor: Add chopped celery for extra texture.
If you want, I can also share a lighter, yogurt-based version, or a holiday-style broccoli salad with pomegranate and pecans that looks festive on the table.
Do you want me to do that?