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Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

4.6 from 59 reviews

This best broccoli salad recipe combines crisp broccoli florets with a creamy, tangy dressing, enhanced by the savory crunch of bacon, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the nutty flavor of sliced almonds. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Salad

  • 1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
  • 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
  • ⅓ cup chopped red onion
  • ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
  • ⅓ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the finely chopped broccoli florets, chopped crispy bacon, chopped red onion, sweetened dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Mix these ingredients gently to distribute them evenly.
  3. Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together carefully to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to slightly soften.
  5. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • To add crunch, toast the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad.
  • This salad tastes best when allowed to chill, but can be served immediately if needed.
  • Customize the salad by adding sunflower seeds or shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
  • Make sure to chop broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating and better dressing coverage.

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon broccoli salad, sweetened broccoli salad, healthy broccoli salad, easy salad recipe, no cook salad