Name: The Best Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-sized pieces; 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries; 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/3 cup sliced almonds; Dressing:; 1 cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

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This creamy and crunchy Broccoli Salad is a colorful, satisfying dish that brings together tender broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, red onion, and sliced almonds. All the ingredients are tossed in a tangy-sweet apple cider mayo dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or preparing a holiday spread, this broccoli salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli salad stands out for its vibrant flavor and hearty, crunchy texture. The savory richness of bacon complements the sweet tang of cranberries and the nutty crunch of almonds, while the creamy dressing brings it all together. It’s quick to prepare, can be made ahead, and gets even better after chilling. Plus, it’s a versatile side dish that fits into both casual cookouts and festive holiday menus.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-sized pieces
crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
sweetened dried cranberries
red onion, finely diced
sliced almonds

For the dressing:

mayonnaise
apple cider vinegar
granulated sugar
fresh ground black pepper

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, diced red onion, and sliced almonds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broccoli to slightly soften.
Stir again before serving and garnish with extra almonds or bacon if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 310 kcal

Variations

Add cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for extra richness.
Swap nuts: Use sunflower seeds, pecans, or walnuts instead of almonds.
Vegan option: Use plant-based mayo and omit bacon or substitute with vegan bacon bits.
Fruit twist: Add chopped apples or grapes for a fresh, juicy contrast.
Lower sugar: Reduce or omit the sugar in the dressing and increase the vinegar slightly for a tangier taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. This salad is not suitable for freezing, and it is best served cold—no reheating required.

FAQs

Can I make broccoli salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance. The flavors meld and the broccoli softens slightly as it chills.

Can I use raw broccoli?

Yes, the broccoli is used raw in this salad. Chilling it with the dressing helps soften it slightly while retaining its crunch.

How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Add the bacon just before serving or stir it in right after chilling to preserve its crispness.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on packaged products to be sure.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is ideal, but white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar are good alternatives.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo for a lighter version.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

It is relatively low in carbs, but you can omit the sugar and dried cranberries for a more keto-friendly option.

How do I make this salad nut-free?

Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.

Can I freeze broccoli salad?

No, freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the broccoli and dressing.

What pairs well with broccoli salad?

It complements grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, and barbecue dishes perfectly.

Conclusion

The Best Broccoli Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and colorful dish that delivers on flavor and texture. With its balanced combination of fresh veggies, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, and tangy dressing, it’s a must-have side for gatherings of all kinds. Make it ahead, serve it cold, and enjoy a truly satisfying and refreshing addition to your table.

The Best Broccoli Salad

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This vibrant and creamy Broccoli Salad features crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, crunchy almonds, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy-sweet apple cider mayo dressing—perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and holidays.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, cranberries, red onion, and sliced almonds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Pour dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors and soften the broccoli slightly.
Stir before serving and garnish with extra bacon or almonds if desired.