crunchy broccoli salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
crunchy broccoli salad recipe
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The Best crunchy broccoli salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this crunchy broccoli salad recipe with you all! This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m convinced it will become a favorite in your family as well.

I first discovered this recipe on a family vacation to the coast of Maine, where my aunt would often serve it at her beachside gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible – the crunch of the broccoli, the sweetness of the carrots, and the tanginess of the dressing all come together to create a truly satisfying salad.

I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit any occasion or dietary need. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a side dish for a family gathering, or just a quick lunch option, this crunchy broccoli salad is sure to hit the spot.

I’ve made it countless times over the years, and it never fails to impress. My kids even ask for it by name – they love helping me mix everything together in a big bowl and devouring it in no time.

It’s also an excellent way to get your daily dose of greens without feeling like you’re eating plain old lettuce. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this salad is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants from all the colorful veggies.

Crunchy Broccoli Salad

Crunchy Broccoli Salad

4.6 from 1564 votes

This crunchy broccoli salad combines fresh broccoli florets with crispy bacon, toasted nuts, and a tangy dressing. It is a perfect side dish for barbecues or potlucks, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly.
2Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets, about 1 inch in size, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3Add the thinly sliced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
4In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
5Whisk until smooth and well blended.
6Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
8Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
9Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10Before serving, give the salad a final toss.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12Serve chilled or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute. Toasting the sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes enhances their nutty flavor.

Watch Video Of How Crunchy Broccoli Salad Works

I always keep a batch of this crunchy broccoli salad on hand because it’s such an excellent way to get everyone eating their greens – even my picky eaters love it!

It’s also incredibly versatile: serve it as a side dish at your next family gathering or take it along on your next picnic as a healthy snack option.

Plus, with its high fiber and vitamin content, you’ll be supporting overall health and well-being for everyone who enjoys it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crunchy Broccoli Salad

What type of broccoli should I use?

For this recipe, I prefer to use fresh broccoli crowns with tight buds and no signs of wilting. If you can’t find fresh broccoli or prefer frozen instead, go ahead and use that – just make sure to thaw it properly before adding it to your salad.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Of course! In addition to carrots, feel free to add diced bell peppers, chopped cucumbers, sliced red onions, or any other veggies you think would complement the flavors in this salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely meat-free and can be enjoyed by anyone who follows a vegetarian diet.

How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

You can store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days without any issues – just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I reheat this salad if I want something warm?

While it’s not necessary to reheat this salad, you can certainly do so if you prefer something warm. Simply microwave or reheat it gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

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