why make this recipe
Broccoli salad is a great choice for a quick and healthy side dish. It’s colorful, tasty, and packed with nutrients. This easy recipe combines fresh broccoli with crispy bacon and sweet cranberries, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks and barbecues, and it can be prepared ahead of time.
how to make Easy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli, 1 medium bunch
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 of a medium onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper
Directions:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain it well.
- Separate the broccoli crowns from the stems. Chop the crowns into small florets and peel and chop the stems into bite-size pieces, discarding the woodiest part.
- Rinse the chopped broccoli under cold water and pat it dry with a towel.
- In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, bacon, and cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss it well. If the salad seems dry, add more dressing to taste.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving, or store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
how to serve Easy Broccoli Salad
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a wonderful side dish with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. Garnish with extra bacon or cranberries for a pop of color and added flavor.
how to store Easy Broccoli Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for about 3 days. If the salad seems dry after a day, feel free to add a little more dressing to revitalize it.
tips to make Easy Broccoli Salad
- For a crunchier texture, try adding some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts.
- If you want to make it healthier, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Make sure to pat the broccoli dry after washing it to help the dressing stick better.
variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients such as grated cheese, diced apples, or even some sunflower seeds for extra crunch. Feel free to play around with the dressing by adding herbs or spices you enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the salad.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this salad vegan, replace the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative and use vegan mayonnaise. You can also add chickpeas for extra protein.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the salad a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Easy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli, 1 medium bunch
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon Cooked until crispy
- 1/4 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup) Soaked in cold water for 10 minutes
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain it well.
- Separate the broccoli crowns from the stems. Chop the crowns into small florets and peel and chop the stems into bite-size pieces, discarding the woodiest part.
- Rinse the chopped broccoli under cold water and pat it dry with a towel.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, bacon, and cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss it well. If the salad seems dry, add more dressing to taste.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving, or store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.