Broccoli Salad

This crowd-pleasing broccoli salad is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and sweet cranberries are coated in a creamy, tangy, and lightly sweet dressing. It’s an irresistible side dish that’s guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Salad:

• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the wonderful contrast of crisp broccoli, crunchy almonds, and chewy cranberries.

• Flavor Balance: The creamy, sweet-tangy dressing perfectly complements the savory bacon and sharp red onion.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors meld beautifully when chilled, making it perfect for prep.

• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners.

Recipe: Classic Crunchy Broccoli Salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 1-2 hours (optional) | Total Time: 20 minutes (+ chilling)
Servings: 6-8 as a side

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1⅓ pounds (about 6 cups) fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped

• ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries

• ⅓ cup sliced almonds

• ⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, chopped bacon, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and red onion.

3. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together until evenly and thoroughly coated.

4. Serve or Chill: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to slightly soften. Toss again just before serving. It can also be served immediately for a crunchier texture.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Broccoli Prep: For the best texture, use very fresh, firm broccoli. You can use the tender part of the stems too—just peel and chop them.

• Toast the Almonds: For a deeper, nuttier flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding.

• Make it Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

• Add a Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

• Seed Swap: Substitute sunflower seeds or pepitas for the almonds.

• For a Lighter Dressing: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The almonds will soften slightly over time.