This Broccoli Salad is Creamy, Crunchy & Crowd-Pleasing
If you’re looking for a fresh, crunchy side dish that disappears fast at any gathering, this Best Broccoli Salad is it. Packed with crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy tangy dressing, this recipe is simple to prep and even better after it chills.
It’s the perfect make-ahead salad for potlucks, BBQs, family dinners, or weekly meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad
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✔ Perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet & savory
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✔ Easy to make ahead
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✔ Customizable (keto-friendly options included)
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✔ No cooking required (except bacon!)
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✔ Great for gatherings or weekday lunches
Ingredients You’ll Need
Salad Base
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1⅓–1½ lbs fresh broccoli florets, bite-sized
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8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
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⅓ cup finely diced red onion
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½ cup sweetened dried cranberries (or keto substitute)
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⅓ cup sliced or slivered almonds
Creamy Dressing
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1 cup mayonnaise
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3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1½ tbsp granulated sugar (or substitute)
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¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
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½ cup sunflower seeds
How to Make the Best Broccoli Salad
STEP 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
STEP 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add broccoli florets, chopped bacon, red onion, cranberries, and almonds.
STEP 3: Toss It Together
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
STEP 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and slightly tenderizes the broccoli.
Before serving, give it one final toss.
Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture
✔ Cut broccoli small. Bite-sized pieces make it easier to eat and help the dressing coat evenly.
✔ Chill time matters. Don’t skip it! The flavor deepens and the texture improves after resting.
✔ Balance sweetness. Adjust sugar depending on how sweet your cranberries are.
✔ Toast the almonds. For extra flavor, lightly toast almonds before adding.
Variations & Substitutions
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Keto Version: Use sugar substitute and unsweetened dried cranberries.
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Nut-Free: Swap almonds for sunflower seeds.
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Extra Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in sharp cheddar for extra richness.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as dressing may settle slightly.
What to Serve with Broccoli Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with:
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Grilled chicken
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Burgers
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BBQ ribs
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Pulled pork
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Sandwich platters
It’s also hearty enough to enjoy on its own for a light lunch.
Make-Ahead Friendly
This is actually one of those salads that tastes better the next day, making it ideal for entertaining or weekly meal prep.
