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The Best Broccoli Salad Recipe for Any Occasion

The Best Broccoli Salad Recipe for Any Occasion

A crisp, creamy broccoli salad made with dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, red onion, and bacon in a sweet-tangy mayonnaise dressing. Chill it for at least one hour so the flavors blend beautifully.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 8 cups Fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1/2 cup Red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Sunflower seeds
  • 6 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Cook the bacon until crisp, about 8 to 12 minutes. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, let it cool completely, and crumble it into small pieces.
  2. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and dry it very well. Cut the florets into small, fork-friendly pieces, and peel and finely dice the stems if desired.
  3. Whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
  4. Place the broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. Toss it again just before serving, then taste and adjust only if needed.

Notes

Dry the broccoli thoroughly so extra water does not dilute the dressing. For especially crisp bacon, stir it in shortly before serving. The salad is usually more flavorful after chilling for at least 1 hour.