This broccoli salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that balances crisp, fresh ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing. The combination of broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds creates an unforgettable texture and taste experience. Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or family dinners, this salad can serve as a satisfying side dish or even a main course, thanks to its nutritional value and filling ingredients. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious broccoli salad.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base that binds all ingredients together.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – For a slight acidity that brightens the dressing.
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper – Adds a touch of spice and complements the sweetness of the dressing.

For the Salad:

  • 1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-sized pieces – The star ingredient, rich in fiber, vitamins, and a hearty crunch.
  • 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped – Adds a savory, salty flavor and crunchy texture.
  • 1/3 cup chopped red onion – Provides a mild, sweet bite that complements the broccoli.
  • 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries – Brings a pop of color and sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds – For a crunchy contrast to the softness of the cranberries and dressing.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

  1. Combine the Dressing Ingredients – In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 1/2 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy, with all ingredients well incorporated.
  2. Adjust for Taste – Taste the dressing and adjust if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more sugar; for more tang, increase the apple cider vinegar. The dressing should be creamy with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
  3. Set Aside to Marinate – Let the dressing sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

  1. Chop the Broccoli – Rinse and dry the broccoli thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Removing excess stems keeps the salad tender and easy to eat.
  2. Cook the Bacon – Cook 8 slices of bacon until crispy, using a skillet or baking in the oven for even browning. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces. The crispy texture and salty flavor add an irreplaceable depth to the salad.
  3. Dice the Red Onion – Dice 1/3 cup of red onion finely. This adds a mild pungency to the salad that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
  4. Measure Out the Cranberries and Almonds – For sweetness and crunch, measure 1/2 cup of sweetened dried cranberries and 1/3 cup of sliced almonds. Set aside for mixing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. Combine Ingredients in a Large Bowl – In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crispy bacon, diced red onion, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  2. Drizzle the Dressing Over the Salad – Pour the prepared dressing over the salad, using a spatula to ensure you get every bit of the dressing from the bowl. Toss gently until the broccoli and other ingredients are fully coated. The dressing should bind the salad without overpowering the fresh crunch of the broccoli.
  3. Let it Rest – For the best flavor, let the salad rest for about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the dressing to slightly soften the broccoli and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Final Garnishes – Just before serving, you can add an extra sprinkle of sliced almonds or a few additional cranberries for a visually appealing garnish.
  2. Serve Chilled – Serve the salad chilled for the best flavor and texture. This salad can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a complement to grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.

Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Salad

  1. Adjusting the Sweetness – If you find the dressing too sweet or tangy, adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste. You can also try honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and high-quality mayonnaise make all the difference in flavor.
  3. Adding More Crunch – For an extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds alongside the almonds.
  4. Healthier Dressing Alternatives – To make the dressing lighter, consider using Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Salad

  • Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants that support immune health.
  • Cranberries add fiber, antioxidants, and a touch of sweetness without refined sugars.
  • Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
  • Bacon adds a boost of protein, and its rich flavor balances the crispness of the broccoli and onions.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

  1. Add Cheese – A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta complements the salad well.
  2. Vegetarian Option – Skip the bacon for a vegetarian version, or substitute with roasted chickpeas for added protein.
  3. Experiment with Vinegar – Swap apple cider vinegar with balsamic or white wine vinegar for a subtle flavor twist.

Storage Instructions

This broccoli salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. However, for best texture, add almonds and bacon right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Why This Broccoli Salad is Perfect for Any Occasion

This broccoli salad is easy to prepare, vibrant, and packed with nutrients, making it ideal for various occasions, from casual lunches to holiday dinners. It can be made ahead and stored, saving you time when preparing for events. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich dressing ensures that it appeals to a wide range of tastes. With its balance of textures and flavors, this salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can easily be customized to your preferences. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish, it brings a refreshing and satisfying option to any table.

Enjoy this flavorful broccoli salad as a nutritious and delicious addition to your meal plans. Its refreshing taste, appealing colors, and balanced nutrition make it a standout recipe that’s sure to impress!

Best Broccoli Salad
Ingredients you will need :
1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1/3 cup chopped red onion
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets finely chopped into bite-size pieces
8 slices crispy cooked bacon chopped
1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries
1/3 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
Whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, cider vinegar, and pepper in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, onions, cranberries, and almonds. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss to coat.