Broccoli has always been one of those veggies that sparks debate at the dinner table—my family can’t get enough of it, yet I remember my childhood friend swore it was just tiny trees masquerading as food. This classic broccoli salad, though, is a game-changer (oops, almost used that word)—it’s crunchy, creamy, and somehow feels nostalgic, like flipping through an old photo album. It’s like the salad version of a ’90s playlist—familiar, comforting, and just a touch surprising.
Steps
- Thoroughly wash and dry the broccoli. Cut the broccoli florets and stems into small, bite-sized pieces. This can be done up to four days in advance if needed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar to create a creamy dressing. Set this aside for later use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli with diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Pour the dressing over this mixture.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even coating of the dressing. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. If desired, garnish with extra crispy bacon pieces right before serving for added texture.
Ingredients
- 8 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ? cup red onion, diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup bacon bits
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2536 | Carbohydrates: 136g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 208g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Cholesterol: 144mg | Sodium: 2640mg | Potassium: 2920mg | Fiber: 24g | Sugar: 80g | Vitamin A: 4680IU | Vitamin C: 653.6mg | Calcium: 400mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare Broccoli Salad in advance?
- Yes, Broccoli Salad can be prepared ahead of time. It’s best to chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, but it can be made up to 24 hours in advance. If making it further ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix just a few hours before serving.
- How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
- Leftovers of Broccoli Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for about 4 to 5 days. Ensure the broccoli is dried thoroughly before preparing to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted.
- What can I use as a substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
- You can substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Alternatively, dressings like Miracle Whip, coleslaw dressing, or creamy poppyseed dressing can also be used.
- Do I need to cook the broccoli before making the salad?
- No, you do not need to cook the broccoli. Simply wash and dry it well, then cut it into bite-sized pieces for the salad.
- What additional ingredients can enhance the Broccoli Salad?
- Besides the standard ingredients, you can add other vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, celery, or peppers. You can also substitute sunflower seeds with chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Tips
- Ensure your broccoli is thoroughly dried after washing to prevent any excess water from diluting the dressing.
- Prepare the salad ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour; this allows the broccoli to absorb the dressing, enhancing the flavor.
- For a healthier version, consider substituting half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt and omitting the bacon bits.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought coleslaw or creamy poppyseed dressing as a quick alternative to the homemade dressing.
Equipment
- Salad Spinner – Useful for ensuring the broccoli is dry after washing.
- Large Mixing Bowl – For combining all the salad ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure out the ingredients accurately.
