Classic Broccoli Salad has become a staple dish for gatherings, potlucks, and everyday meals. Combining fresh, crunchy broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing, savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and a hint of nutty sunflower seeds, this salad delivers a vibrant blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a nutritious meal addition, our Classic Broccoli Salad recipe is packed with healthy ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare.
Why Our Classic Broccoli Salad Stands Out
This broccoli salad is more than just a mix of ingredients; it’s a well-balanced, flavorful dish that can stand on its own or complement any main course. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Healthy Ingredients: This salad is loaded with broccoli, a vegetable rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Great Texture: Crisp broccoli, chewy cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon bits make each bite enjoyable.
- Creamy Dressing: The mayo-based dressing is perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and ingredients, you can whip this salad up in no time.
Ingredients for Classic Broccoli Salad
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – Choose firm, green florets for the best texture and color.
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries – Provides a hint of sweetness that balances the creamy dressing.
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds – Adds a nutty, crunchy element without overpowering the flavors.
- 1/2 cup bacon bits – You can use store-bought bacon bits or cook and crumble your own bacon for a smoky addition.
Creamy Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise – This forms the base of the dressing, giving the salad its creamy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the richness of the mayo.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Provides sweetness to complement the savory and tangy elements.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the dressing.
How to Make Classic Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by washing and drying the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into small, bite-sized florets, discarding the thicker parts of the stem. If the florets are too large, they’ll be challenging to coat evenly in the dressing, so make sure they are appropriately sized.
Step 2: Chop the Red Onion
Finely chop the red onion into small pieces. The red onion adds color and a slight sharpness, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can overpower the salad. Use only half a cup to maintain balance.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust as needed. The dressing should have a balanced sweetness and tanginess to coat the broccoli perfectly.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until each ingredient is well coated in the dressing.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the salad’s texture. Serve cold for the best results.
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Salad
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli has a crunch that holds up well in the salad. Avoid using frozen broccoli, as it can become too soft.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar in the dressing.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the salad by adding grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, or diced celery for extra crunch and color.
- Prep Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for events or gatherings. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until serving time.
Classic Broccoli Salad Variations
Low-Calorie Broccoli Salad
For a lighter version of this classic, substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt has a similar creamy texture but contains fewer calories and offers a slight tang.
Vegan Broccoli Salad
To make this salad vegan-friendly, use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing and omit the bacon bits. You can add toasted almonds or smoked nuts for a hint of smoky flavor without the meat.
Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This twist pairs well with the sweetness from the cranberries and sugar.
Extra Cheesy Broccoli Salad
Adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled feta cheese can give the salad a rich, cheesy flavor. Cheese works well in broccoli salad and complements the creamy dressing.
Perfect Pairings for Classic Broccoli Salad
Broccoli salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some pairing ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
- Grilled Meats: The tangy, creamy salad balances beautifully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak.
- BBQ Favorites: Serve it alongside classic BBQ items like ribs, sausages, or pulled pork.
- Light Sandwiches: Broccoli salad makes a great side for deli-style sandwiches, wraps, or cold-cut platters.
- Vegetarian Mains: Pair it with veggie burgers, roasted vegetable dishes, or grain bowls for a nutritious vegetarian meal.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Salad
Rich in Nutrients
Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients support immune health, bone strength, and digestive health.
Good Source of Protein and Fiber
With the addition of sunflower seeds and bacon bits, this salad provides a balanced mix of protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
Antioxidant Benefits
Red onion and cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. This makes the Classic Broccoli Salad a nutritious choice for those looking to improve their overall health.
Conclusion
Our Classic Broccoli Salad recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. This dish combines fresh, crunchy broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit any preference or dietary need, making it an ideal choice for any gathering or meal prep.
