This crunchy broccoli salad is full of fresh flavors! With crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, and crunchy nuts, it’s a tasty side that adds color to any meal.
You won’t believe how quickly it disappears at gatherings! I love making this salad ahead of time—it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge. Perfect for picnics too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for crisp texture. If you can’t find fresh broccoli, frozen florets work too; just thaw and drain them well first.
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite to the salad. If red onion is too sharp for your taste, try using green onions or even a sweet onion like Vidalia instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, which I love! You can swap it for a milder cheese, like Monterey Jack, if you prefer less intensity, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Dried Cranberries: They bring sweetness and chewiness. Raisins or chopped apples can be a great substitute, or try chopped dates for something different!
Pecans: These add crunch and a nutty flavor. Walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used instead, especially if you have nut allergies.
Mayonnaise: This serves as the salad’s creamy base. Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative if you want a lighter dressing, and it adds protein too!
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Tasty?
Making the dressing is straightforward, but getting it just right is key. Start by whisking the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar together until there are no lumps. The vinegar gives it a nice tang that balances the salad.
- Combine the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar in a bowl first.
- Add the sugar and whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust sweetness by adding a touch more sugar or some honey, based on your taste buds.
Taste it before adding it to the salad; it’ll help to get the flavors balanced just the way you like!
The Best Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for potlucks or as a side for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering a large bowl. In the bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Give everything a good mix to ensure all the ingredients are well distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until the mixture is smooth. This dressing will add flavor and creaminess to your salad!
3. Combine and Coat:
Now, pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get the flavors just right. Feel free to adjust the dressing if you wish—it should be to your liking!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad even tastier. When ready to serve, enjoy your delicious, chilled broccoli salad!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
Sure! Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well before using it. This prevents extra moisture in the salad which might make it soggy. Pat it dry with paper towels to absorb any excess water!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or can’t have mayo, you can use Greek yogurt instead. It provides a creamy texture and adds a bit of protein. You can mix it with a little vinegar for tanginess if desired!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
The broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some ingredients may settle or release moisture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, sunflower seeds for crunch, or even cooked bacon bits for a savory touch. Just keep the proportions similar for balance!
