Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Best Broccoli Salad: Crunchy, Creamy, Irresistibly Fresh!


  • Author: Tara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

This vibrant broccoli salad is a delightful medley of crunchy florets, sweet raisins, and crispy bacon, all enveloped in a creamy dressing that balances tanginess and sweetness. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, complemented by the freshness of the broccoli and the savory notes of the bacon, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Broccoli: 4 cups, chopped into bite-sized florets
  • Bacon: 6 slices, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • Raisins: 1 cup, plump and sweet
  • Red Onion: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
  • Sunflower Seeds: 1/2 cup, roasted and unsalted
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Dressing:
    • 1 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons sugar
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, raisins, red onion, sunflower seeds, and cheddar cheese.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • This salad can be made a day in advance; just add the bacon and sunflower seeds right before serving to maintain their crunch.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: salad
  • Method: mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 8 grams
  • Sodium: 400 milligrams
  • Fat: 18 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Protein: 6 grams
  • Cholesterol: 15 milligrams

Keywords: broccoli salad, best broccoli salad, creamy salad, crunchy salad, side dish, healthy salad, potluck salad, easy salad recipe, American cuisine, gluten-free salad, fresh vegetables, salad dressing, summer salad, quick salad, vegetable salad