Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Broccoli: Fresh florets are key for crunchiness and color. If fresh isn’t available, use frozen broccoli but let it thaw and drain excess moisture.

Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor. For a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh instead.

Red Onion: Finely chopped for a kick. You can substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.

Sunflower Seeds: These add crunch! If you have nut allergies, skip them or use pumpkin seeds instead.

Dried Cranberries: For sweetness! Raisins can be a good swap, or try chopped apples for a fresh twist.

Feta Cheese: Adds creaminess. If you need a dairy-free alternative, use crumbled tofu seasoned with herbs.

How Do I Make a Smooth Dressing?

Making the dressing right can really enhance the salad’s flavor! Here’s how:

• Use a medium bowl. Whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
• Make sure the honey is mixed in well; you can warm it slightly to help it blend, if needed.
• Taste it before adding to your salad. Adjust any ingredients to your liking!

Chilling the salad allows all the flavors to combine beautifully, so don’t skip that step. Enjoy your creamy broccoli salad! 🥗

Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour in the fridge to chill and let the flavors develop. It’s a quick dish to whip up and perfect for gatherings or meal prep!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese (if you’re using it). Give everything a good stir to mix them together evenly.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste it, and add more salt or pepper if you think it needs it!

3. Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy dressing.

4. Chill the Salad:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time really helps the flavors to blend together and makes for a refreshing dish.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Types of Nuts or Seeds?

Absolutely! If you have allergies or just prefer something different, you can substitute sunflower seeds with chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds. Just ensure they are toasted for extra flavor!

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Leftover creamy broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken a bit.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance, and it will taste even better after the flavors have had time to blend. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator!

Is There a Vegan Version of This Recipe?

Yes! To make this salad vegan, use a vegan mayonnaise, substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh, and omit the feta cheese. It will still be delicious and creamy!