Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

Indulge in the crisp and flavorful goodness of the best broccoli salad recipe. This recipe combines the freshness of broccoli with the savory crunch of bacon, the sweetness of cranberries, and the nutty texture of almonds, all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing.

Why Make This Recipe

This broccoli salad is perfect for anyone looking for a light and refreshing side dish that is bursting with a variety of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

How to Make Best Broccoli Salad

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise

1 1/2 tablespoons sugar

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets finely chopped into bite-size pieces

8 slices crispy cooked bacon chopped

1/3 cup chopped red onion

1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries

1/3 cup sliced almonds

Directions:

Whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, cider vinegar, and pepper in a small bowl.

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, onions, cranberries, and almonds.

Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss to coat.

Cover and chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Toss again right before serving.

How to Serve Best Broccoli Salad

This broccoli salad is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. It makes a wonderful side dish for barbecues, picnics, or alongside grilled meats. Serve it in a large bowl or as individual portions for a colorful and tasty addition to any meal.

How to Store Best Broccoli Salad

Store any leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Tips to Make Best Broccoli Salad

For extra crunch, you can substitute the almonds with toasted sunflower seeds or pecans.

If you prefer a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise.

Make sure to chop the broccoli into small, bite-size pieces for the best texture and flavor.

Variation

For a vegetarian version of this salad, omit the bacon and add in some crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick. You can also customize the salad by adding in other ingredients like chopped apples, shredded carrots, or sun-dried tomatoes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad? Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and taste, but you can blanch frozen broccoli before using it in the salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I use a different type of vinegar? While apple cider vinegar provides a nice tangy flavor, you can use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar as substitutes.