This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is a fantastic mix of crunchy broccoli, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing. It’s a refreshing side that’s perfect for picnics or barbecues!
I love how simple this salad is to whip up. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty dish that makes even broccoli seem a bit more fun! 🥦🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for crunch. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw and drain it well first.
Bacon: I like using cooked bacon for its smoky flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, crispy chickpeas or tempeh make a great substitute.
Dried cranberries or raisins: These add natural sweetness. You can switch them out for other dried fruits like chopped apricots or figs if you prefer.
Sunflower seeds: They provide a nice crunch. You can try pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or pecans if you want more variety.
Feta cheese: Adding feta gives it a nice tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based.
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is essential for bringing this salad together! It’s easy to make and adds a lot of flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Add salt and pepper to taste; start with a little and adjust according to your preference.
- Make sure to whisk until smooth; a well-mixed dressing coats the salad evenly!
- For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t skip that step!
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving, which allows all the delicious flavors to mix together. So, the total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a great make-ahead dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by gathering a large bowl. Add in the fresh broccoli florets, cooked bacon, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries or raisins, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese if you’re using it. It’s a colorful mix!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Make sure every little piece gets some love!
4. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors come together so beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a final stir. Scoop it into a serving bowl and dig in! This creamy, crunchy, and sweet broccoli salad is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?
Fresh broccoli florets are best for this salad, as they provide a nice crunch. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it well, as excess moisture can make the salad watery.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy broccoli salad can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate slightly over time.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and substitute crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a protein-packed vegetarian option. You can also add extra sunflower seeds for more crunch!
What Should I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread. It’s also great on its own as a light lunch! Enjoy it chilled for the best flavor.
