Why Everyone Asks for This Broccoli Salad
This classic broccoli salad is crunchy, creamy, and loaded with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and sweet dried cranberries. It’s the easy, make-ahead side that disappears first at every picnic and potluck!
I’m going to make a bold little promise.
This is the salad that turns no-veggie eaters into broccoli believers. ;0)
I have watched it happen more times than I can count. Someone takes a polite little scoop just to be nice, and the next thing you know, they’re back for thirds and asking me for the recipe.
It’s the kind of simple, crowd-pleasing side that earns a permanent spot at the table.
How to Make Broccoli Salad
- Start by tossing your broccoli, cranberries, red onion, and bacon bits together in a big mixing bowl.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk up the dressing. That’s just mayo, a little sugar and honey, apple cider vinegar, and a few simple seasonings, stirred until smooth and creamy. This sweet-and-tangy dressing is the heart of the whole thing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and toss until everything’s coated.
- Add your shredded cheddar and give it one more gentle toss.
- Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour so the flavors can get cozy and meld together.
- Then just give it one last toss and serve.
Make It Ahead
This is one of those wonderful dishes that actually wants to be made in advance.
One little heads-up. As it sits, the dressing can look a bit milky. Don’t worry, that’s completely normal! It’s just the ingredients melding together. A quick toss brings it right back before serving.
Ways to Make It Your Own
- Bulk it up. A little chopped cauliflower stretches it further and adds even more crunch.
- Add some extras. Sunflower seeds, shredded carrot, or chopped green onion are all lovely mixed in.
- Make it dairy-free. Simply leave out the cheddar. It’s still delicious.
More Easy Sides
Rounding out the spread? These are always a hit.
Make a big bowl of this one, and I promise it won’t last long!
Scroll down to print the recipe!
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Classic Broccoli Salad
This classic broccoli salad is cool, crunchy, and creamy, loaded with sharp cheddar, bacon, and sweet dried cranberries. An easy, make-ahead side for any cookout or potluck!
- Prep Time 10 mins
- Chill Time 1 hr
- Total Time 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield 8 servings 1x
- Category Side Dish, Sides
- Cuisine American
Ingredients
- 6 cups broccoli florets, washed and roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries (such as Craisins)
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup bacon bits
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Place the broccoli, dried cranberries, red onion, and bacon bits into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate smaller bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
- Add the shredded cheddar and gently toss again until incorporated.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, then serve.
Notes
- Add cauliflower for extra nutrients and bulk if you like.
- Feel free to add other ingredients such as sunflower seeds, shredded carrot, or chopped green onion.
- Store covered in the fridge for 3-4 days for best results.
- This salad tastes even better on the second day, but you can serve it right away if you prefer.
- As the salad sits, the dressing will look a little milky. Don’t be alarmed, that’s just the flavors melding together. Toss leftovers to re-incorporate the dressing before serving.
- Sharp cheddar is great here, but mild works too. Omit the cheese to make it dairy-free.
- Perfect for picnics and potlucks, or as a side with a light lunch or dinner.
