This broccoli salad recipe is a timeless favorite fresh, crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, holiday potluck, or simply looking for a healthy salad idea for weekday meals, this dish never disappoints.
Made with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and a sweet-tangy homemade dressing, it perfectly balances freshness and richness in every bite making it one of the best fresh salad recipes for any occasion.
Why This Broccoli Salad Recipe Works
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Fresh ingredients that keep their crunch
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Creamy and tangy dressing with balanced flavor
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Quick to prepare with minimal prep time
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Easy to customize with what’s in your kitchen
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Perfect make ahead salad for gatherings or meal prep
This isn’t your average leafy salad — it’s hearty, refreshing, and absolutely addictive. Ideal for low carb salad recipes or vegetable side dishes that please everyone at the table.
Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Salad Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy vegetable salad that’s full of color, crunch, and flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need for the salad:
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6–8 strips)
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sunflower seeds (shelled)
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
For the creamy dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional dressing variations include a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Tip: Mixing mayo with Greek yogurt makes this a lighter version — perfect for healthy salad meals or meal prep lunches.
How to Make Broccoli Salad (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the red onion and cook the bacon until crispy. Crumble or chop the bacon into bits.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, red onion, bacon, shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and cranberries.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Salad
- Chop the broccoli small for better dressing coverage and texture.
- Make ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
- Don’t skip the bacon: It adds a salty, crunchy bite that balances the creamy dressing.
- Use fresh broccoli: Avoid frozen—it will be too soft and release excess moisture.
Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ins
This cold broccoli salad is flexible. Here are some variations and customizations:
Swap the cheese
Try feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
Try a different nut or seed
Use chopped almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower seeds.
Add extra vegetables
Shredded carrots, cherry tomatoes, or cauliflower florets work well.
Use turkey bacon or leave it out
For a lighter version, try turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian-friendly side dish.
Lighter Broccoli Salad Dressing Option
To make it healthier without losing flavor, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt and add honey instead of sugar. This version is lighter but still creamy — ideal for low calorie salads or healthy lunch recipes that don’t feel boring.
To make a healthier version of the dressing:
- Use ½ cup mayo + ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey instead of sugar
- Use apple cider vinegar for extra tang
This version is lighter in calories but still creamy and flavorful.
What to Serve with Broccoli Salad
This make ahead vegetable salad pairs perfectly with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches and BBQ favorites.
This broccoli salad recipe makes a great side dish for:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Burgers and hot dogs
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Baked potatoes or quiches
It’s a great all-purpose side dish for cookouts, potlucks, and weekday meals.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Making this salad ahead not only saves time but actually improves the flavor. The broccoli absorbs the dressing, giving you the perfect meal prep salad that’s crunchy, creamy, and full of freshness.
Can I make broccoli salad in advance?
Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. Letting the salad chill for a few hours enhances the flavors.
How long does broccoli salad last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Stir before serving.
Can I freeze broccoli salad?
Freezing is not recommended. The dressing will separate and the texture of the broccoli will change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to blanch the broccoli first? No. Raw broccoli gives the best crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, blanch it quickly (1 minute in boiling water, then ice bath).
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your bacon and other add-ins are certified gluten-free.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts into the salad better and has no anti-caking additives.
Can I use a store-bought dressing instead? You can, but the homemade dressing is what gives this salad its signature flavor.
Why This Is the Best Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Flavor-packed: Creamy, sweet, salty, and tangy in every bite
- Loaded with texture: Crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, seeds, and cheese
- Flexible and foolproof: Easy to adjust to taste and make ahead
- A crowd-pleaser: Always one of the first dishes to disappear at gatherings
This fresh broccoli salad strikes the perfect balance between vibrant veggies and indulgent toppings — making it a go-to for easy salad recipes for dinner or lunch.
Final Thoughts on This Fresh Broccoli Salad Recipe
This broccoli salad recipe is quick, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re prepping weekday lunches or planning a get-together, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Fresh, colorful, and crunchy, it’s a healthy vegetable side dish that tastes great year-round. Once you try this combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become one of your favorite make ahead salads for any meal.
