Broccoli salad is a classic dish that combines fresh, crunchy broccoli with a variety of flavorful ingredients, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. This Best Broccoli Salad recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal rotation. With a blend of fresh vegetables, savory bacon, and a tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.
One of the best things about this broccoli salad is its versatility. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or even as a light lunch. The recipe is easy to follow and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a tasty and enjoyable way.
This salad can be made ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for meal prep. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator, so it’s a great dish to prepare in advance. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a delicious snack, this Best Broccoli Salad recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You Will Love Making This RecipeÂ
There are plenty of reasons to love making this Best Broccoli Salad recipe. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious salad ready in no time. This makes it perfect for those days when you want something quick and healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer it with more vegetables, a different type of dressing, or added protein, this broccoli salad can be adapted to fit your liking. It’s a great way to use up whatever you have in your pantry and fridge, making it both economical and practical.
This Best Broccoli Salad is also perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for several days. It’s a convenient option for lunch or dinner throughout the week, and it tastes even better as the flavors meld together. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure you’re getting plenty of vegetables in your diet.
Lastly, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or a barbecue, this broccoli salad is sure to impress your guests. It’s fresh, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
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Directions & InstructionsÂ
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Other Ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the broccoli.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional InformationÂ
Here is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of the Best Broccoli Salad:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Potassium: 350mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 70mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 1mg
This salad is a nutritious and flavorful side dish, packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh broccoli and other ingredients. It’s a healthy addition to any meal.
Variations
- Vegan Broccoli Salad: Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and omit the bacon.
- Spicy Broccoli Salad: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Greek Yogurt Dressing: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Frequently Asked QuestionsÂ
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can. In fact, this salad tastes even better when made ahead of time as the flavors have time to meld together. Prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use frozen broccoli? While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the salad.
What can I serve with this broccoli salad? This broccoli salad pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It’s also great as part of a picnic or potluck spread.
How long does this salad last in the fridge? This salad will last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality ingredients make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the salad.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the ingredients and dressing to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Best Broccoli Salad as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic or potluck. It’s also delicious on its own as a light lunch or snack. Pair it with a refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea for a perfect meal.
