Description
A delicious and easy-to-make broccoli salad that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish. This Best Broccoli Salad Ever is loaded with fresh broccoli florets, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, bacon, and cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Broccoli Salad:
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend. Stir again before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayo to lighten it up.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
- This salad holds up well in the fridge and is great for make-ahead meals or potlucks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
