This crunchy and creamy broccoli salad is a fresh delight! It’s packed with bright green broccoli, sweet raisins, and a yummy dressing that ties everything together.
I love how simple this salad is to make! Just toss the ingredients, and you’re ready to impress your friends. Perfect for picnics or weeknight dinners! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for that crunchy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Red Onion: This adds a sharp zest. If red onion is too strong for you, try green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Dried Cranberries: They bring a sweet touch to the salad. Feel free to swap these with raisins, chopped apples, or even diced mango for a new twist!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a savory crunch. For a vegetarian option, use crispy chickpeas or smoked almonds instead.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a nice nutty flavor and crunch. If you have allergies, pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts work well as substitutes.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives it a creamy tang. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter salad.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Just Right?
Getting the dressing perfect is crucial for this salad! Here’s how to make it easy:
- Start with mayonnaise as a base; it gives creaminess. Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Mix in apple cider vinegar for that tangy kick, which brightens the flavors.
- Add honey for sweetness; adjust based on how sweet you like it.
- Don’t forget salt and pepper! They make all the flavors pop.
- Blend it all in a bowl until smooth, and taste it—feel free to tweak as needed!
Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4 slices)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy creamy broccoli salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So roughly, plan for around 40 minutes total before serving. You get a delicious salad with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing your fresh broccoli. Cut it into bite-sized florets to make it easy to eat. You want nice, crunchy pieces, so take your time with this step!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets with the chopped red onion, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, and feta cheese if you like it. Give everything a good gentle mix to start blending those flavors.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad delicious, so make sure it’s well combined!
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together carefully to coat the salad evenly with the dressing. You want each bite to be tasty!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to mingle and get even better! Before serving, give the salad a stir to mix everything again.
6. Enjoy Your Salad:
Your crunchy, creamy broccoli salad is now ready to enjoy! It’s perfect for serving at potlucks, BBQs, or a refreshing side dish for any meal. Bon appĂ©tit!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli completely before using it in the salad. Fresh is ideal for crunch, but frozen can work in a pinch!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or roasted sunflower seeds for that same crunchy texture. You could also use smoked tofu for a similar flavor profile!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before each serving, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and dressing a day ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, then combine for the freshest taste!
