cranberry broccoli salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cranberry broccoli salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this cranberry broccoli salad recipe with you. It’s a family favorite that I’ve been making for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

I love how the sweet and tangy flavors of the cranberries and broccoli come together in this dish. It’s a great way to get my kids to eat more veggies, and it’s also a healthy alternative to traditional salads.

The key to making this recipe is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the broccoli. If you can’t find fresh broccoli, frozen will do in a pinch.

I like to use a mix of red and white cabbage for added crunch and flavor. The cranberries add a lovely pop of color and a burst of sweetness.

I’ve made this recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, and even as a side dish for weeknight dinners. My kids love helping me make it, and it’s a great way to get them involved in cooking.

The best part is that it’s super easy to make ahead of time – just assemble the ingredients in separate containers and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

Cranberry Broccoli Salad

4.6 from 1595 votes

A vibrant and tangy cranberry broccoli salad, perfect for a side dish or a light meal. This salad combines the freshness of broccoli with the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries and a creamy dressing.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups broccoli florets
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped celery

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant.
3Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
4While the almonds are toasting, prepare the broccoli.
5Cut the broccoli into small florets.
6Place the florets in a large bowl of boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender.
7Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
8Add the dried cranberries, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, and chopped celery to the bowl with the broccoli.
9Mix well to combine.
10In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
12This will be the dressing for your salad.
13Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
14Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
15Add the toasted almonds and mix again.
16Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
17This step is crucial for the best taste.
18Serve chilled, garnished with additional almonds if desired.
19Enjoy your cranberry broccoli salad as a side dish or a light meal.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Blender

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch. For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Broccoli Salad Works

I always recommend this cranberry broccoli salad recipe for any occasion. It is a versatile and delicious dish that can be served as a side or a light meal.

I often make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals because it is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet, and the combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Plus, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and health benefits.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Broccoli Salad

What is the best type of cheese to use in this recipe?

I like to use a sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese for its rich flavor and texture. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh in this recipe. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.

How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it’s best consumed within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

No, it’s best to assemble the ingredients just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have cranberries? Can I substitute them with another ingredient?

You can substitute cranberries with chopped raisins or dried cherries if you don’t have them on hand.

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