Creamy Broccoli Salad is a fresh and delicious side dish made with crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy, tangy dressing. This easy salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a healthy addition to any meal. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and a great way to enjoy your veggies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy and Creamy: Combines fresh broccoli with a smooth, tangy dressing.
- Easy to Make: Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Versatile Side Dish: Great for picnics, parties, or everyday meals.
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with fresh vegetables and satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and red onion. - Combine with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated. - Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. - Serve:
Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Make It Lighter: Use light mayonnaise or substitute with all Greek yogurt.
- Add More Veggies: Include shredded carrots, chopped celery, or cauliflower florets.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Make It Sweet and Spicy: Add diced apples or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended as the fresh vegetables may lose their texture when thawed.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—this salad is best served cold.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before serving.
Do I need to cook the broccoli first?
No, fresh raw broccoli adds a nice crunch to the salad. However, you can blanch it briefly if you prefer a softer texture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a mixture of Greek yogurt and a bit of olive oil for a healthier alternative.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon or replace it with crispy chickpeas or vegetarian bacon bits.
How do I make the salad dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely, and substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes, diced apples, grapes, or fresh berries add a sweet and refreshing twist.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
Sunflower seeds, almonds, or walnuts add a great crunch and flavor.
How long does creamy broccoli salad last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.
What can I serve with broccoli salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or as a side at a barbecue.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli Salad is a delicious and easy side dish that combines fresh, crunchy broccoli with a creamy and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just adding a healthy side to your dinner. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables with a burst of flavor and satisfying textures. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a refreshing and healthy salad everyone will love!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Salad combines fresh, crisp broccoli florets with savory bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all enveloped in a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying, making it ideal for gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (approximately 2 heads), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced or shredded
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon (if using).
-
Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey or sugar until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Give the salad a gentle toss before serving. Enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it convenient for gatherings.
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped apples, grapes, or nuts such as almonds or pecans for additional flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.