Creamy Broccoli Salad

This flavorful broccoli salad is a fun alternative to chicken salad or potato salad. Even better, it’s easier to make and more nutritious thanks to the vitamins and minerals packed into the broccoli. Try it once, and you may never have to fight your loved ones to eat their vegetables ever again!

Don’t be surprised if your family requests this salad over and over, as the added flavors and varied textures help transform what is typically a plain vegetable side dish into the star of the meal. Make your dinners and barbecues more exciting with this simple recipe that has three steps and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. A side salad never sounded more appealing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy broccoli salad is a delightful combination of crunchy textures and savory flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, adding a nutritious twist to your meal. The creamy dressing, combined with the crunch of sunflower seeds and the sweetness of cranberries, makes it irresistible!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 3/4 cup sunflower seed kernels
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, onion, cranberries, and sunflower kernels.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture, tossing everything together to ensure it’s well coated.
4. Let the salad marinate in the fridge for an hour or two before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure the broccoli is fresh and crisp. You can blanch it briefly in boiling water if you prefer a softer texture. Adjust the sugar in the dressing to your taste for a less sweet option.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add in some shredded cheese or swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. You can also try adding sliced almonds or swapping cranberries for raisins for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is rich in fiber and vitamins, mainly from the broccoli and cranberries. The bacon and sunflower seeds add a good amount of protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad actually tastes better if made a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen broccoli? Fresh is best for this recipe, but if you use frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.

Conclusion

Ready to give this creamy broccoli salad a try? It’s a quick and easy recipe that will surely become a family favorite. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any creative twists you add. Enjoy!