Go Back
A vibrant bowl of fresh broccoli salad with various ingredients

Broccoli Salad

This vibrant broccoli salad combines crisp broccoli florets with a creamy dressing and a medley of sweet and savory mix-ins, offering a delightful blend of five distinct flavors in every bite. It's a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 0.5 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 0.25 cup sunflower seeds
  • 0.25 cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing
  • 0.75 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

Prepare the Broccoli
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli florets; ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
Combine Salad Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, combine the prepared broccoli florets, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Dress the Salad
  1. Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl and toss everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the broccoli salad for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Notes

For an added touch of sweetness, consider toasting the sunflower seeds lightly before adding them to the salad. This salad tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to mingle in the refrigerator.