Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Tangy Dressing
Looking for the best broccoli salad recipe? This vibrant, tangy version with bacon & cranberries is a BBQ crowd-pleaser. Easy, quick, and oh-so-good! Get the recipe now.
Alright, let's get down to business with the queen of side dishes! ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering what to bring to the next barbie? let me tell you about this broccoli salad recipe .
It's a game-changer. trust me on this.
Broccoli Salad: Not Your Nan's Version!
This isn't that sad, soggy excuse for a salad you've seen at every potluck. this easy broccoli salad recipe is bursting with flavour and texture.
We're talking crisp broccoli, smoky bacon (or a veggie stand-in!), sweet cranberries, and a tangy dressing that'll make your taste buds sing.
This isn't just any broccoli salad . We're making The Best Broccoli Salad you've ever tasted.
Think of it as an American classic with a modern twist. It's the perfect example of Salads For Potlucks Easy .
Where Did This Beauty Come From?
Broccoli salad is a beloved American side dish, often gracing picnic tables and holiday spreads. It embodies the spirit of sharing and simple pleasures.
This broccoli cheese salad is super easy to make, taking about 30 minutes of hands-on time and yielding 6-8 servings. Prep time is 20 minutes and 10 minutes for cooking.
Why You'll Love This Broccoli Salad Recipe
Honestly, what's not to love? broccoli is surprisingly good for you, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. i can't recommend enough that you try to make broccoli salad , i learned how to make it when i was 22 and, ever since, it's been a big hit for parties.
This salad is perfect for any occasion. It can be served to Easter Broccoli Salad , but works just as well at a summer BBQ or a simple weeknight dinner.
This broccoli cheddar salad is something special. the contrast of textures and flavors is simply divine. the crisp broccoli against the creamy dressing, the salty bacon against the sweet cranberries.
.. it's a symphony in your mouth! plus, it's customisable. vegan? sub in vegan mayo and "bacon." boom! you've got a vegan broccoli salad .
Ready to grab those ingredients? Let's get started with what you'll need to whip up this masterpiece...
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to nail this broccoli salad recipe . think of it as gathering your troops before a culinary battle.
No stress, though! it's all pretty straightforward. let's find out how to make broccoli salad with these perfect ingredients!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks
Alright, here’s the shopping list. seriously, print it out, stick it on the fridge! first, you'll need 1 large head of broccoli (about 1.
5 lbs/680g ). you want it fresh, bright green, and firm to the touch. if it's starting to yellow, give it a miss.
Then, you're gonna want 1 cup (120g) of finely diced red onion – the red adds a nice pop of colour.
Next up, 1 cup (150g) of cooked, crumbled bacon, or your veggie bacon sub. for the sweeter side, you'll need 1/2 cup (75g) of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup (60g) of sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that delightful crunch.
Optionally, 1/4 cup (30g) of shredded cheddar can be used for extra flavor, and 1/2 cup (50g) of almonds or walnuts is great too! people also ask for broccoli potato salad or easter broccoli salad , and you could always add them.
It's your creation!
If you are wondering about The Best Broccoli Salad , it all comes to quality, so always keep that in mind.
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
Don't underestimate the dressing. it’s the secret weapon! you'll need 1 cup (240ml) of mayo – full-fat or light, you do you! then, 1/4 cup (60ml) of apple cider vinegar for that tangy zing.
A little 1/4 cup (60g) of sugar for sweetness, 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard for depth, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
Honestly, taste and adjust as you go. no one's judging!
Worried about vinegar? a squeeze of lemon juice works in a pinch. brown sugar can be an alternative to the granulated sugar if you are looking for a richer dressing.
You know? broccoli cheese salad or broccoli cheddar salad are options too! if you’re making salads for potlucks easy , this is your ticket!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Listen, you don't need fancy gadgets. you'll need a large mixing bowl, a smaller one for the dressing, a whisk, a chopping board, and a decent knife.
If you're cooking bacon in the oven, a baking sheet. otherwise, a frying pan works just fine. job done!
There it is. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don't sweat the small stuff. Enjoy making this Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe .
Alright, let's chat about this broccoli salad recipe . Honestly, it's a lifesaver for potlucks. And, how to make broccoli salad that isn't boring? That's the goal, right?
Prep Like a Pro: The Secret Sauce to a Killer Salad
Mise en place is key, mate. Get everything chopped and measured before you start. Honestly, it'll save you a headache later.
Essential mise en place
Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Dice the red onion finely. Cook that bacon (or your veggie alternative). The red onion gives it a bit of a kick. You know?
Time-saving organization tips
Cook the bacon in the oven at 200c for 10- 15 minutes while you prep everything else. less mess, less fuss.
Boom. do not forget about checking that the bacon is crispy.
Step-by-Step: Making The Best Broccoli Salad Ever!
- Wash and dry the broccoli florets. Chop 'em smallish.
- Cook that bacon until crispy. Crumble it when cool. Or prep the veggie bacon according to the pack.
- Whisk together the dressing. Mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Get it smooth .
- Chuck the broccoli, onion, bacon, cranberries, and seeds into a big bowl.
- Pour over the dressing and gently toss. Coat everything evenly.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes . This is critical! Flavours need time to mingle.
- Give it a final toss and serve. Sprinkle with more nuts for extra crunch.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Salad Game
Pro Tips
- Blanch the broccoli for 1- 2 minutes in boiling water, then shock it in ice water. Makes it brighter and tender-crisp.
- Don't overdress! Add it bit by bit, tossing as you go. Soggy salad is sad salad .
Common mistakes to avoid
For a creamy Broccoli Cheese Salad , add some shredded cheddar. A Broccoli Potato Salad ? Boil and cube some potatoes. So many options, you know?
Make-ahead options
Make the dressing up to 3 days ahead. store it in the fridge. the salad itself is best enjoyed within 24 hours of dressing it.
Otherwise, the broccoli gets a bit sad. this easy broccoli salad recipe is perfect salads for potlucks easy . or even a easter broccoli salad that everyone will ask you for the recipe.
Try adding broccoli coleslaw for an interesting change. i have made a broccoli cheddar salad myself and my family has loved it every time.
And every time, i'm amazed by the final results.
Alright, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs about this broccoli salad recipe ! I've made this salad hundreds of times, so trust me, these notes are gold.
Recipe Notes
Ace Serving Suggestions
How you plate things can make all the difference, you know? for a proper bbq spread, pile this broccoli salad recipe high next to your burgers.
Presentation-wise, think about using a nice bowl. sprinkle a few extra sunflower seeds on top just before serving – makes it look extra fancy!
Think about what goes well with it. this broccoli cheddar salad loves being served with grilled chicken or even a quiche.
For drinks? iced tea or a nice cold lemonade does the trick! i've also had it as easter broccoli salad .
Storage Know-How
Pop any leftovers into an airtight container. it will happily sit in the fridge for up to three days. honestly? it tastes even better the next day once the flavours have really mingled.
Freezing isn't the best shout for this one, unfortunately. the mayo can get a bit weird once it thaws. so, best to avoid freezing altogether.
I have made broccoli potato salad that freezes amazing so i feel that would be a nice switch up if i were to eat this one again.
Reheating? Nah. This is a cold salad. Just give it a good stir and you're good to go.
Cracking Variations
Fancy a healthier Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe ? Swap out some of the mayo for Greek yogurt. It adds a nice tang and cuts down on the calories. You know, for balance!
Want to jazz it up for autumn? try adding roasted butternut squash or some chopped apple. it gives it a lovely seasonal twist.
I might also add in to make a broccoli coleslaw .
Nutrition Nitty-Gritty
Okay, i'm no nutritionist, but basically, this salad has got your greens (broccoli!), some healthy fats (sunflower seeds!), and a bit of protein (from the bacon, if you're using it).
Plus, cranberries give you a little boost of antioxidants.
So, it's not just tasty, it's actually doing you some good! There are also some amazing Salads For Potlucks Easy that can be a nice addition.
Right then, that's your lot! get out there and give this the best broccoli salad a go. you'll be chuffed you did! and don't be afraid to play around with the recipe and make it your own.
Cooking should be fun, after all! you've got this. let me know how to make broccoli salad your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this broccoli salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's better if you do. The flavors of this broccoli salad meld together beautifully after a few hours in the fridge. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to keep the broccoli nice and crisp, not soggy like a British summer.
How long does broccoli salad last?
This broccoli salad recipe is best enjoyed within 3-4 days. After that, the broccoli can start to lose its crunch, and the dressing might get a bit watery. Make sure it's kept properly refrigerated in an airtight container to prevent food poisoning, wouldn't want a dodgy tummy ruining your day!
I'm not a fan of mayonnaise. Can I substitute it in this broccoli salad recipe?
You sure can! Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a tangier and slightly healthier dressing. Start with using about half the amount of Greek yogurt as you would mayonnaise and adjust to taste. You can also try a combination of mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt, like Mary Berry with a Kitchen Aid!
What are some variations I can try to spice up this broccoli salad recipe?
Fancy jazzing things up a bit? Try adding some chopped toasted almonds for extra crunch, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick. You could even throw in some shredded cheddar cheese for a more savoury flavour, like a ploughman's lunch in salad form.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting soggy in my broccoli salad?
Nobody wants a soggy salad, it is a cardinal sin! First, make sure your broccoli florets are thoroughly dried after washing. Second, don't overdress the salad; add the dressing gradually until it's just coated. Finally, consider blanching the broccoli briefly in boiling water then shocking it in ice water for a more tender, vibrant green floret that stays crunchy for longer.
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Tangy Dressing Recipe Card
