Looking for a delicious and crowd-pleasing salad that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than this Best Broccoli Salad Recipe! Packed with crisp bacon, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a casual dinner at home. And the best part? It only takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare!
Ingredients
To make this delicious broccoli salad, you’ll need:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving. Give it a final toss just before serving to ensure all the flavors are well distributed.
Notes
- Substitutions: Feel free to substitute ingredients like sunflower seeds, pine nuts, or chopped pecans for the sliced almonds.
- Extra Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add an additional tablespoon of sugar to the mix.
- Variations: Experiment with different additions like shredded sharp cheddar cheese, seedless grapes, or crumbled feta cheese to add extra flavor and texture to your salad.
Nutrition
Per Serving:
- Calories: 283 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 205mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
Substitutions
- Cauliflower: You can reduce the amount of broccoli by half and substitute finely chopped cauliflower for a different twist on this recipe.
Additional Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add extra nuts or seeds for a vegetarian-friendly version of this salad.
- Honey Mustard Vinaigrette: If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise-based dressings, try making a honey mustard vinaigrette instead for a tangy alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Potluck Perfect: This broccoli salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering where you need to feed a crowd.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better if you let it chill in the fridge for an hour or two before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding extra nuts or seeds for protein and crunch.
3. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
4. Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked bacon is a great time-saving option for this recipe. Just make sure it’s crispy before chopping it up and adding it to the salad.
5. Can I add extra ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite ingredients like cheese, fruit, or additional vegetables to customize this salad to your liking.
With its vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and easy preparation, this Best Broccoli Salad Recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try for your next gathering and watch it disappear before your eyes!