This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is a crunchy and colorful dish full of fresh broccoli, raisins, and creamy dressing. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies without feeling like you’re eating them!
I love serving this salad at picnics or barbecues. It’s super simple to make, and let’s be honest, who can resist that sweet and tangy dressing? Perfect for sneaking in some greens! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this salad. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can work as long as it’s thawed and drained well. I prefer fresh for that crisp texture!
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice bite. If you’re sensitive to raw onions, try using green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky crunch! You could use turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful that flavors will change!
Dried Cranberries: They bring a sweet touch. If you prefer something less sweet, use raisins or chopped apples. Dried cherries are also a delicious choice!
Sunflower Seeds: These seeds give a satisfying crunch. Pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) could be great alternatives if you have nut allergies.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, leave it out or replace it with a dairy-free cheese option.
How Do You Create the Best Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is crucial for this salad, bringing everything together. Here’s how to make it just right:
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (or any vinegar), honey (or sugar), salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until smooth; you want a creamy consistency without lumps.
- Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; you can adjust sweetness by adding more honey or sugar.
- If the dressing feels too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or extra vinegar.
This dressing packs a punch and complements the fresh veggies perfectly, making each bite delicious!
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You should allow at least 1 hour for chilling in the refrigerator to let the flavors mingle. This means a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine your fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries (or raisins), and sunflower seeds. If you’re using feta cheese, add that in as well. Give everything a gentle toss to mix them together nicely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well blended and smooth. This creamy dressing will be what makes your salad delicious!
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in the creamy dressing. Make sure every piece is covered for the best flavor!
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour—this will help the flavors meld together perfectly! If you’re in a pinch, you can serve it right away, but chilling makes it even better.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before you serve, give the salad a good stir to mix everything again. You can also taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it chilled as a tasty side dish at your next meal!
This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures that your friends and family will love. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or just a family dinner at home!
FAQs for Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and the salad will taste even better after a day in the fridge!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan mayo or a tahini-based dressing to maintain that creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or cauliflower for extra crunch and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
