If you’re searching for a delightful way to enjoy your greens, this Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It blends crisp broccoli florets with savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and a luscious, tangy dressing that brings everything together perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish for a family dinner or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this salad strikes a fantastic balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded salad. From vibrant green broccoli to the zing of Dijon mustard, every component adds something special.
- 1 pound broccoli (1 medium bunch), chopped into small florets: The star of the dish, fresh and crunchy, providing a wonderful base with a refreshing bite.
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy dimension that contrasts beautifully with the tender broccoli.
- ¼ medium onion, finely chopped (about ⅓ cup): Offers a subtle pungency and crunch that complements the salad’s textures.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: Bursts of natural sweetness and a pop of color make the salad visually appealing and flavorful.
- ½ cup mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought): Creates the creamy and rich coating that binds all the ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayo and bacon.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a gentle heat and depth of flavor that lifts the dressing.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every bite.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by crisping up the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches that perfect crunchy texture. Once cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, then chop or crumble it into small pieces. This smoky, crispy bacon will add an irresistible contrast to the fresh broccoli.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This creamy dressing is the heart of the salad, combining tanginess and richness that perfectly complement the vibrant ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Combine the chopped broccoli, finely chopped onion, dried cranberries, and the cooked bacon pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour your freshly made dressing over the top and toss until every bit is beautifully coated. This step ensures that each forkful gets the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Pop the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully meld and the dressing soak into the broccoli. Serve it cold or at room temperature — both options bring their own charm and deliciousness to the table.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To give your salad a little extra flair, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a nutty crunch. These finishing touches enhance both appearance and introduce new layers of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a simple sandwich for a light lunch. Its creamy texture and robust flavors make it a fantastic companion to many main dishes, adding freshness and brightness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve the Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe in small mason jars or decorative bowls, allowing guests to grab individual portions. You could also layer it between lettuce leaves for easy handheld bites that are perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as broccoli can lose some crunch over time, but the flavors will remain vibrant and enjoyable.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing because the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh vegetables won’t maintain their texture after thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days after making.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve it straight from the fridge or allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe?
While fresh broccoli offers the best crunch and texture, you can use thawed frozen broccoli if you’re in a pinch—just be sure to drain any excess moisture so the salad doesn’t become watery.
Is there a way to make the dressing lighter?
Absolutely! You can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I add other nuts or seeds to this salad?
Yes! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds all make excellent additions, adding a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the broccoli and cranberries.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
It’s best to assemble the salad the day of serving or up to a few hours ahead to maintain the freshest texture and flavor. Refrigeration during this time helps all the ingredients meld nicely.
Can I omit bacon for a vegetarian version?
Definitely. For a vegetarian twist, you can either leave out the bacon or substitute with smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas to keep the smoky, crunchy element.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe is one of those gems that feels like comfort food and a fresh salad all at once. It’s simple to whip up, packed with texture, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. I genuinely can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you taste it, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy dish featuring fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, dried cranberries, and a tangy homemade dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. It’s perfect as a refreshing side for any meal and comes together quickly in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 pound broccoli (1 medium bunch), chopped into small florets
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- ¼ medium onion, finely chopped (about ⅓ cup)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they turn crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Allow to cool slightly, then chop or crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, finely chopped onion, dried cranberries, and the cooked bacon pieces. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise.
- You can add toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- The salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Adjust vinegar and mustard quantities to your taste preferences.
- Make sure to chop broccoli florets small for easier eating and better flavor distribution.
