If you’re searching for a quick, no-cook side dish that combines fresh vegetables with a balance of creamy and crunchy textures, this Easy Broccoli Salad is a perfect choice. It’s a classic recipe that comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing complement to your weeknight dinners.
Unlike cooked vegetable sides, this salad highlights the crispness and natural sweetness of raw broccoli, enhanced by a tangy, creamy dressing and a mix of add-ins like dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and optional bacon pieces. It requires minimal preparation time and no special cooking skills—just chopping, mixing, and chilling.
Read on to learn how to make this delicious salad, plus tips on variations, storage, and serving suggestions.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Ready in about 15 minutes – perfect for quick meal prep or last-minute gatherings
- Uses common ingredients easily found in most kitchens or grocery stores
- No cooking required—just fresh, raw broccoli and simple mix-ins
- Customizable for different dietary needs—easily made vegetarian or dairy-free
- Balanced textures and flavors—crunchy, sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once
This salad has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ cup sunflower seeds for crunch
- ½ cup dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness
- ½ cup cooked bacon pieces (optional, for smoky richness)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for tang
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar to balance acidity
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing the broccoli florets under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Drain well.
Use a sharp knife to cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized pieces for consistent texture and easier eating.
Dice the red onion finely. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the onion’s sharpness will distribute throughout the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and cooked bacon pieces if you’re using them.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt until smooth and fully blended.
Step 4: Toss Salad with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until every piece is well coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to slightly thin out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance. Refrigeration actually helps deepen the flavors as the broccoli soaks up the dressing. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter or tangier option, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used in equal amounts in place of mayonnaise. This variation also reduces the calorie count.
How do I make this salad vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon pieces. The salad will still be delicious with the sunflower seeds providing texture and the cranberries adding sweetness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is best for this salad because frozen broccoli tends to become limp and watery once thawed. If you must use frozen, thaw it completely and drain thoroughly, but note the texture will differ.
Tips for Best Results
- Wash produce carefully: Freshness and cleanliness impact flavor and safety.
- Use fresh broccoli florets for crispness. If you prefer, the peeled broccoli stems can be finely diced and added to the salad to reduce waste.
- Cut broccoli evenly so every bite has the same texture.
- Mix dressing thoroughly to ensure it’s smooth and well emulsified before tossing with salad.
- Chill the salad for at least an hour; this helps the flavors marry and softens the broccoli slightly for a better mouthfeel.
- Add crunchy mix-ins just before serving if you’re not eating immediately, to prevent them from getting soggy.
Variations and Add-Ins
This basic broccoli salad recipe is easy to modify:
- Nuts instead of seeds: Try toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
- Sweet swaps: Substitute dried cranberries with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries.
- Creamy dressing alternatives: Use a mixture of mayonnaise and sour cream or add a little honey mustard for tang.
- Extra veggies: Add finely shredded carrots, diced celery, or even chopped red bell pepper for more color and nutrients.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or chives sprinkled on top add brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli salad is a perfect side dish to complement a variety of meals:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a light, refreshing balance.
- Bring it to potlucks or picnics where no reheating is needed.
- Pair with sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for added crunch and flavor.
- Include it as part of a holiday buffet or barbecue spread.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within three days for best taste and texture.
- Do not freeze as the broccoli and dressing will separate and become watery.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve, especially if transporting to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Broccoli Salad offers a refreshing, crunchy, and creamy experience with minimal effort. Its combination of fresh broccoli, sweet cranberries, nutty sunflower seeds, and a tangy dressing makes it a versatile side dish that pleases crowds and fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, packing lunchboxes, or contributing to a potluck, this salad is a reliable and delicious choice. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.