If you’re searching for a salad that bursts with crunch, sweetness, and a hint of tang, this Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful medley of fresh broccoli florets paired with chewy dried cranberries and balanced by a creamy, slightly tangy dressing. This salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with texture and flavor, making it a beloved favorite for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or when you want something fresh and satisfying on the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but vibrant ingredients is all it takes to create this charming salad. Each one plays a crucial role: fresh broccoli brings a crisp base, cranberries add sweet tartness, and the dressing ties everything together with creamy tang.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped: The star of the salad, providing a satisfying crunch and loads of nutrients.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These bring that perfect touch of chewy sweetness that balances the greens beautifully.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Adds a zesty bite that livens up every forkful.
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds: For a nutty crunch that enhances texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional): A creamy, tangy component that complements the cranberries amazingly.
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional): Offers a smoky, savory twist to make your salad unforgettable.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the luscious base of the dressing, giving it richness and creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a refreshing tang that brightens every bite.
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness for a harmonious flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the components.
How to Make Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start by combining mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This simple yet flavorful dressing is what gives the salad that irresistible tangy-sweet vibe.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a generously-sized salad bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli, dried cranberries, diced red onion, sunflower seeds (or almonds), and shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. For an added punch of flavor and crunch, scatter the crispy bacon bits on top.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing
Pour the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss everything thoroughly to ensure each bite is beautifully coated with that creamy dressing. This step is key for the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor combination, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time allows the broccoli to soak in the dressing and the cranberries to soften just right, turning the salad from delicious to downright addictive.
How to Serve Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra sunflower seeds or almonds on top just before serving for a fresh crunch. A few fresh herb leaves like parsley or chives can add a lovely pop of color and a subtle herbal note that complements the salad’s brightness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even as a refreshing side to a spicy barbecue. Its cool, creamy texture serves as a perfect contrast to heavier or smoky mains, balancing out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and festive touch, serve the salad in individual mason jars or clear bowls so the vibrant colors shine through. You can also stuff it into pita pockets or serve it atop crisp lettuce leaves for a delightful handheld option that doubles as a light lunch or picnic treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover broccoli cranberry salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its freshness and texture for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because of the fresh raw broccoli and creamy dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of the broccoli will become mushy and the dressing can separate, which affects the overall flavor and mouthfeel.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes to take the chill off, but reheating is not advised as it alters the freshness and crunch that make this salad so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Fresh broccoli works best because it maintains that crunchy texture that defines this salad. Frozen broccoli tends to be softer and can make the salad watery once thawed, so I don’t recommend it.
Is the bacon necessary for the Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe?
The bacon is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a smoky, savory element. It adds a delicious contrast to the sweetness and crunch, but the salad is fantastic even without it.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes! If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a combination of half Greek yogurt and half mayo to keep the creaminess while cutting down on fat.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes in the fridge is ideal to allow the dressing to meld with the broccoli and cranberries. This waiting time really makes the flavors come together beautifully.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to this salad?
Absolutely! Chopped apples, walnuts, or pecans can be wonderful additions. Just be mindful of balancing the flavors so the classic Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe remains the star.
Final Thoughts
Giving this Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe a try means inviting crunch, sweetness, and creamy tang into your meal in the most delightful way. It’s simple enough for any day but special enough to serve at gatherings where you want to impress. Once you taste it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to salads to brighten up your table and please your taste buds!
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Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Broccoli Cranberry Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish combining crisp broccoli florets, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds or almonds, and optional savory additions such as sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey, this salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a healthy everyday meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or slivered almonds)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, dried cranberries, finely diced red onion, and sunflower seeds or slivered almonds. If using, add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly until the broccoli and other components are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
- The cheddar cheese and bacon are optional and can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust honey amount to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Make the salad a few hours ahead to enhance flavor melding, but add bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
