This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is a delicious mix of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a yummy dressing that pulls it all together. It’s crunchy, creamy, and so refreshing!
You can serve it as a side dish, or snack while watching your favorite show. I can’t help but munch on this salad whenever I make it—so good! 🥦😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star here! If you prefer, you can use cauliflower for a twist or even a mix of both. Frozen broccoli works in a pinch; just thaw and pat it dry!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can easily swap it with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. Chickpeas or smoked paprika can add depth if you skip the meat.
Red Onion: This gives a nice kick! If it’s too strong for you, use green onions or shallots instead. They’re milder options.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness. Raisins or chopped fresh apples work well too if you want something different!
Sunflower Seeds: For crunch, consider swapping these with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds if you’re looking for variety.
Feta Cheese: You can use crumbled goat cheese or even skip cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make a Creamy Dressing Without It Being Too Thick?
The dressing is essential for tying all the ingredients together! Here’s how to make it just right:
- Mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey together. This gives a balance of creaminess, tanginess, and sweetness.
- If your dressing seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water or milk to thin it out without compromising flavor.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper based on your preference for a well-seasoned dressing.
Letting the salad chill helps the flavors meld beautifully! Give it a stir just before serving for the best taste.
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For The Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. After mixing all the ingredients, it’s best to chill the salad for at least 1 hour in the fridge, so the flavors can mix together nicely. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 20 minutes before indulging in this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the fresh broccoli florets, crispy chopped bacon, finely diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese. Give everything a good toss so that the ingredients are mixed well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as per your preference!
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Make sure not to mash the broccoli!
4. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld beautifully. It’ll taste even better after sitting for a bit!
5. Final Touch and Serve:
Once your salad has chilled, give it a final stir just before serving. Enjoy this delightful creamy, crunchy, and colorful salad as a side dish or a refreshing snack—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent sogginess.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that the salad may get softer as it sits, but it will still taste great!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and skip the bacon. For extra flavor, you can add crispy chickpeas instead and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or want a dairy-free option, you can swap it out for crumbled goat cheese, or use a vegan cheese alternative. Alternatively, leave it out entirely and add extra nuts or seeds for crunch!
