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Broccoli salad is a super easy summer side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite proteins. Refreshingly cool and full of fresh ingredients, all coated in a creamy dressing.
This recipe became a go-to for me during backyard barbecues. It is one dish everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients
- Salad:
- Fresh broccoli florets: Cut into bite-size pieces. They provide the crisp, crunchy base for the salad.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded. Adds a rich bite and familiar creaminess to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Dried cranberries: Chopped. These offer a chewy texture with bursts of natural sweetness.
- Red onion: Diced. Provides a sharp, savory depth to the flavor mix.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds savory, smoky notes and additional texture.
- Sunflower kernels: Deliver nutty crunch without needing to toast.
- Dressing:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that ties all components together. Choose a quality brand for the best taste.
- Sour cream: Brings an additional tangy richness to the dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a zesty tang that lifts all flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tangy and savory elements with mild sweetness.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all other ingredients without overpowering.
- Fresh cracked black pepper: Gives the dressing a touch of spice and depth.
How To Make Broccoli Salad
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Cut broccoli into bite-size pieces for perfect texture in every bite. Wash and pat dry thoroughly.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl whisk together the mayonnaise sour cream apple cider vinegar sugar salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. Let this rest for a while to let flavors meld.
- Toss the Salad:
- In a large bowl mix broccoli florets shredded cheese chopped cranberries diced red onion bacon and sunflower kernels.
- Combine:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated ensuring the dressing reaches every corner.
- Chill:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step is crucial for melding the flavors and enhancing the texture.
Storage Tips
To store keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh up to three days. Toss lightly before serving as the dressing may settle slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter dressing. Swap dried cranberries with raisins or diced fresh apple for a different flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken fish or burgers. It also works as a crunchy complement to a fresh sandwich lunch.
This broccoli salad delivers a refreshing bite perfect for hot summer days or playful family gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the broccoli for the salad?
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets and wash them thoroughly. You can use raw broccoli for a crisp texture or blanch it briefly for a softer bite.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. It's best to prepare and refrigerate it for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
- → What are good substitutions for dried cranberries?
If you don’t have dried cranberries, you can use raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dried apricots as sweet alternatives.
- → Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute for regular bacon. Cook it until crispy for the best flavor and texture.
- → What should I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or as a side dish for picnics and barbecues.
- → How long can this salad be stored in the fridge?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the broccoli may soften over time.
- → Can I make the dressing lighter?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise or sour cream to make the dressing lighter while still creamy.