Broccoli Salad: A Crunchy, Creamy Classic

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Broccoli Salad is a timeless side dish that brings together the best of both worlds—fresh, crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing that makes every bite pop. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a weekday lunch, this salad is loaded with bold texture and flavor. From the crunch of raw broccoli to the sweet bursts of dried cranberries and the saltiness of sunflower seeds or bacon, it’s an irresistible mix that balances taste and nutrition.

What makes this Broccoli Salad truly special is its versatility. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to make ahead, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual gathering or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fun and colorful way to eat your greens—no steaming required!

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Ingredients for this Broccoli Salad

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
• ⅓ cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds)
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for extra crunch)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1–2 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the florets into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating and maximum flavor absorption. If the stems are tender, feel free to peel and chop them too—they add a satisfying crunch and reduce waste.

Step 2: Chop and Combine the Mix-Ins

Dice the red onion finely so it distributes evenly without overpowering each bite. In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon (if using). If you’re adding cheese, toss it in now as well. The key is to combine ingredients that vary in texture—crunchy, chewy, and creamy.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re aiming for a healthier twist, substitute half or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt—it still delivers that creamy tang without as much fat.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is well coated. The broccoli should be lightly dressed, not drowning. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and the broccoli a chance to soften slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Right before serving, give the salad a quick toss and sprinkle on extra seeds or bacon for a final crunchy touch. Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or on its own for a light meal.

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Storage Instructions

Broccoli Salad stores beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead dish. Once prepared, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In fact, the flavors deepen over time, making day-two servings even more delicious.

If you’re planning to store it for multiple days, consider leaving out the bacon or nuts until just before serving. This helps them retain their crispness and prevents any sogginess from the dressing.

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated per serving (based on 6 servings with mayonnaise dressing and bacon):

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 340mg

Note: These values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s recommended to make it a few hours ahead so the flavors can meld. It holds up well in the fridge for several days.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

It’s best to stick with fresh broccoli. Frozen tends to become too soft and watery once thawed, which affects the texture of the salad.

3. How can I make it healthier?

Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise, reduce the sugar, and skip the bacon. You can also add more veggies like shredded carrots or kale.

4. What other mix-ins work well?

Try chopped apples, grapes, or nuts like pecans or almonds for different textures and flavors.

5. How long does the salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in the basic recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the bacon and cheese labels if you’re sensitive to gluten.

7. Can I skip the sugar in the dressing?

You can. The sugar balances the tangy vinegar, but it’s totally fine to reduce or omit it if you prefer.

8. What dishes pair well with Broccoli Salad?

This salad is a great side for grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or even as part of a brunch spread.

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