This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is bright and crunchy, with fresh broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts all mixed in a tasty dressing. It’s a colorful bowl of happiness!
If you want to impress at your next potluck, this salad is the one. It’s quick to make, and I love how it stays delicious for days. Bonus: no cooking required—how easy is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this salad. Look for bright green, firm florets. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli—just thaw and drain well before adding.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use crispy baked chickpeas or sunflower seeds to maintain that crunch while skipping the meat.
Dried Fruits: Cranberries add sweetness, but raisins work just as well. For something different, try chopped apples or diced fresh fruit like grapes for a refreshing twist.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a lovely crunch. If you’re allergic, swap them out for chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. Pumpkin seeds are another great alternative!
Feta Cheese: This is optional but adds a creamy tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can skip it or try vegan feta. Regular cheese like goat cheese would also work well.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for Broccoli in My Salad?
Getting the broccoli just right is key for a great salad. Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. You want them small enough to eat but still chunky enough to add texture.
- For extra tenderness, you can blanch the broccoli. Simply cook them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly chill them in ice water.
- Always pat the broccoli dry if you blanch it. This prevents the salad from becoming watery after you add the dressing.
Perfectly prepared broccoli will give you a refreshing crunch, making this salad irresistible!
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and making the salad. After that, let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let those flavors blend together. In total, about 1 hour and 15 minutes is all you’ll need!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli under cold water. Next, chop it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the finely chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries or raisins, and sunflower seeds to the bowl with the broccoli. These will all add great texture and flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and sugar (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing brings everything together!
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything gently until it’s well coated. Make sure all that goodness is mixed in!
5. Add Cheese and Chill:
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top and give it a gentle stir. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour so the flavors can meld perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or on its own. Enjoy this crunchy, creamy, and slightly sweet dish!
This salad is great for potlucks, lunches, or as a side at dinner. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a convenient make-ahead option! Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just mix everything together and store it in the refrigerator. Letting it chill will enhance the flavors!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve if you plan to have leftovers.
Can I Use Different Nuts or Seeds?
Yes, you can definitely substitute the sunflower seeds with other nuts or seeds! Almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds work well and will add a nice crunch to your salad.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
If you’re out of mayonnaise or prefer a lighter option, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste, as yogurt can be tangier than mayo!
