Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

Introduction

This best broccoli salad recipe is a delightful mix of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing side dish at dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
• 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
• ⅓ cup chopped red onion
• ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Step 1: Whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, crispy bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
3. Step 3: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Toss gently again before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad.
• Swap dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried cherries for a different fruity note.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.
• Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor and texture.

Storage

Store the broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be gently tossed again before serving after chilling. Avoid making it too far in advance to keep the broccoli crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this broccoli salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and chill it for 1-2 hours before serving. However, for the best texture, avoid making it more than a day ahead as the broccoli may soften.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli works best in this salad for maximum crunch. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture, but the texture may still be softer than fresh.

Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 117 reviews

This Best Broccoli Salad Recipe is a quick and delicious side dish featuring fresh broccoli florets tossed with a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Crunchy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, sharp red onions, and toasted almonds add layers of flavor and texture that make this salad a standout at picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners. Ready in just 15 minutes and best served chilled for a refreshing bite.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Salad

• 1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
• 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
• ⅓ cup chopped red onion
• ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and fresh ground black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
2. Prepare the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli florets, chopped crispy bacon, chopped red onion, sweetened dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
3. Toss with dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Chill before serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
5. Final toss and serve: Just before serving, give the salad one last gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Serve chilled.

Notes

• This salad can be made a day in advance to enhance the flavors.
• For a lighter version, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• To make it nut-free, omit the sliced almonds or replace with sunflower seeds.
• Ensure the broccoli is chopped finely for better coating and easier eating.
• Adding a small amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice can brighten the flavor.

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon broccoli salad, creamy broccoli salad, broccoli salad with cranberries, easy broccoli salad, no cook broccoli salad