Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Salad is a quick and easy dish that delivers big flavor! It combines fresh, crisp broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing, offering a perfect mix of crunch and smoothness. The combination of sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and savory bits makes every bite satisfying and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped into small pieces

• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheddar)

• 1/2 cup savory bits (optional, for added crunch and flavor)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)

• 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

2. Make the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and savory bits.

3. Toss to Coat:
   Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve:
   Refrigerate the salad for at least 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the broccoli to soften slightly.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Chill time: 20–30 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)

Variations

• Add Crunch: Toss in diced apples or chopped celery for extra crunch.

• Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free version.

• Sweet & Salty: Add a few salted cashews or walnuts for an extra layer of flavor.

• Different Fruit: Try dried cherries or raisins instead of cranberries for a different twist.

• No Savory Bits? Skip the savory bits for a simpler version or try using crispy chickpeas as a replacement.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Refrigeration: Make ahead and refrigerate for the best flavor. The salad will soften slightly as it sits, making it even more delicious.

• Reheating: Not necessary, as this is a chilled salad, best served cold.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a day ahead. It actually gets better as it sits and the flavors meld together.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute, and choose vegan mayo to keep it entirely dairy-free.

Can I substitute other nuts for sunflower seeds?

Definitely! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans would all be great substitutes.

Is this salad spicy?

No, the salad is not spicy. The dressing is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet. If you prefer a kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Can I use regular vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar or any vinegar you prefer. Apple cider vinegar, however, gives a mild tangy flavor that complements the sweetness well.

How can I make the salad sweeter?

If you like a sweeter salad, you can add more maple syrup to the dressing or toss in some additional dried fruit, such as raisins or sweetened cranberries.

Can I skip the onion?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of onion, you can omit it and still have a delicious salad.

What’s the best way to serve this salad?

This salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is an easy-to-make, delicious side dish that offers the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, potluck, or gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. The freshness of broccoli, combined with the richness of the dressing, makes this salad a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite.