broccoli and cranberry salad recipe

broccoli and cranberry salad recipe

The Best broccoli and cranberry salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this broccoli and cranberry salad recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

The combination of tender broccoli, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans is just perfect. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in just 20 minutes.

I love that it’s a great way to get in some extra greens and antioxidants, especially during the winter months when fresh produce can be scarce. And the best part?

It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick lunch for the kids. My family loves it so much that they often request it for their birthdays and holidays.

I’ve even started making it for potlucks and picnics because everyone always asks for the recipe. So, let’s get started on how to make this delicious broccoli and cranberry salad recipe.

Broccoli and Cranberry Salad

Broccoli and Cranberry Salad

4.9 from 1257 votes

A crisp and tangy salad featuring fresh broccoli florets, dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing. This dish is perfect for potlucks or a quick side.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped pecans
1/4 cup finely diced red onion

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl.
2Add the dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and diced red onion.
3Toss gently to combine.
4In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference.
6Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
7For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 280mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 11g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant to enhance their nutty flavor.

Watch Video Of How Broccoli and Cranberry Salad Works

This broccoli and cranberry salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick lunch for the kids. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even as a healthy snack on its own.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in just 20 minutes. My family loves it so much that they often request it for their birthdays and holidays.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli and Cranberry Salad

Q: What type of broccoli is best for this recipe?

A: I prefer to use fresh broccoli florets for this recipe, as they hold their texture better than frozen or steamed broccoli. However, if you only have frozen broccoli on hand, make sure to thaw it first before using.

Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

A: While you can use dried cranberries as a substitute, I highly recommend using fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Dried cranberries will give your salad a more concentrated sweetness, which may not be desirable.

Q: How do I prevent the broccoli from getting soggy?

A: To keep your broccoli florets crisp, make sure to dress them just before serving. If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, store the broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with other nuts or seeds?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds to find your favorite combination. Some options include walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, or even chopped pistachios.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan due to the presence of honey in the dressing. If you’re looking for a vegan version, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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