The Best Broccoli Salad: Crunchy Family Favorite

This broccoli salad is a crunchy family favorite. It moves fast to make and tastes fresh.

This salad blends crisp broccoli, bacon, cheese, seeds, and a creamy sweet dressing. It works for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or picnic sides. If you like simple family recipes and want a sweet finish, try a chocolate orange celebration dessert after this salad.

Why This Recipe Works

The salad mixes textures: crunchy broccoli and seeds, soft cheese, and chewy dried fruit. The dressing is creamy, slightly tangy, and a little sweet. These flavors balance and make every bite pleasing. For a simple dessert to serve with this salad, try a classic chocolate chip cookie.

Why you should try this recipe

• It is quick to make.
• Kids and adults usually like it.
• You can change a few ingredients to match what you have.
• It keeps well for a day or two in the fridge.

How to make The Best Broccoli Salad: Crunchy Family Favorite

This recipe is easy to follow. You chop, mix, dress, and chill. For a main dish pairing, serve with an easy meatloaf for a full meal.

Ingredients :

5 cups broccoli florets, chopped, ½ cup precooked bacon, crumbled, ½ cup red onion, finely diced, ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded, ¼ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds, ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins, ¾ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey or sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Equipments Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Spoon or whisk for mixing
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator for chilling

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli, Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse with cold water.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients, In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, precooked bacon, red onion, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
Step 3: Make the Dressing, In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything, Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve, Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

How to serve The Best Broccoli Salad: Crunchy Family Favorite

Serve cold or slightly chilled. Put it in a large bowl for a party or divide into small bowls for plates. It goes well with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or roasted meat.

How to store The Best Broccoli Salad: Crunchy Family Favorite

Store in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for 2 to 3 days. If the salad gets soft, drain any extra liquid and stir before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Chop broccoli small so people can eat it easily.
• Toast the seeds or almonds for extra crunch.
• Taste the dressing and add more vinegar or honey if you want more tang or sweetness.
• For a dessert after this salad, try a simple chocolate babka.

Variations & Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt or light mayo for a lighter dressing.
• Swap cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots.
• Replace bacon with cooked ham or skip for a vegetarian version.
• Use walnuts or pecans instead of sunflower seeds or almonds.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it refrigerated. Toss before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: You can, but thaw and drain it well. Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch.

Q: How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
A: Chop broccoli small, drain any wet ingredients, and chill in an airtight container. Add seeds just before serving if you want extra crunch.

Q: Can I change the dressing?
A: Yes. Try yogurt with lemon juice or a light vinaigrette.

Conclusion

This broccoli salad is a simple, crunchy dish that most people enjoy. If you want more ideas for broccoli sides, see Cookie and Kate’s favorite broccoli salad for another take. For a slaw-style version with a tangy twist, check Overtime Cook’s crunchy broccoli slaw with tangy maple dressing.

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