Best Broccoli Salad
Looking for the Best Broccoli Salad Recipe to impress at your next BBQ or potluck? This Easy Broccoli Salad is packed with fresh, crisp broccoli, smoky broccoli bacon bits, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s tossed in a creamy, tangy 3-ingredient dressing that makes every bite irresistible. Make this Best Broccoli Salad ahead of time for a no-fuss side dish that always gets rave reviews. A must-have for summer cookouts, holiday dinners, or any time you’re craving the best broccoli salad ever!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets about 2 medium heads
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds or pecans
- 1/4 cup diced red onion or green onions
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar or honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces and chop the tender parts of the stem, if desired. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the bacon bits, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and diced red onion to the bowl with the broccoli. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the Best Broccoli Salad for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to let the flavors meld. Stir before serving and garnish with extra bacon or sunflower seeds, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your summer salad!
Notes
- Dry the Broccoli Well: This keeps the salad from getting watery.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge helps the flavors soak in.
- Get Creative: Throw in extras like chopped apples, shredded carrots, or broccoli slaw.
- Healthier Option: Replace half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt and skip the bacon.