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Fresh and vibrant salads are our FAVORITE! So, naturally, when we want something fresh and a bit of crunch, this broccoli salad recipe is our go-to.
The combination of crisp broccoli florets, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy bacon, and a creamy dressing creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The best part? Even our kids will eat their broccoli!
It is filling enough to be enjoyed as a light lunch. The flavors only improve as it sits – perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge to enjoy throughout the week.
With its bright colors and refreshing taste, this broccoli salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
For similar tasty variations try our Broccoli Strawberry Salad and Broccoli Cauliflower Salad.
Why we think you’ll love it:
- Fresh and healthy. This refreshing and satisfying easy salad recipe is packed with nutrients and a delightful crunch.
- Quick and easy. No cooking is required! This salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or sharing.
- Perfect for prepping. This summer salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient and delicious option for parties and picnics.
Broccoli Salad Ingredients and Substitutions
- 1 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise – or Miracle Whip (dairy-free), or plain Greek yogurt (less fat) – the flavor will change slightly
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar – or an alternative sweetener
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar – We usually use white wine vinegar, but apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or lemon juice will work as well.
- 7 cups chopped broccoli florets – Buy a bag of fresh broccoli florets or cut bite-sized pieces. Wash the raw broccoli under running water and then pat dry. Remove the leaves, if any. When in a pinch, thaw frozen broccoli.
- ½ cup Craisins – or raisins or sliced fresh red grapes
- ½ cup shelled sunflower seeds – or pine nuts, chopped pecans, cashews, or almonds
- 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled – see Bacon in the Oven or use bacon bits
- optional – season with salt or black pepper
How to Make Broccoli Salad
- COMBINE. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar and mix well.
- Add chopped broccoli and Craisins and stir to coat.
- CHILL. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
- SERVE. Before serving, stir in sunflower seeds and crumbled bacon.
Kristyn’s Recipe Tips
- Cook the Bacon in the Oven or use store-bought bacon bits.
- We love the crunch of fresh raw broccoli best, but thawed frozen broccoli can be used.
- Give the salad ample time to chill in the dressing which makes it a perfect make-ahead salad.
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 7 cups chopped broccoli florets
- ½ cup Craisins
- ½ cup shelled sunflower seeds, raw or roasted
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar and mix well.
- Add broccoli and Craisins and stir to coat.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
- Before serving, stir in sunflower seeds and bacon.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Recipe FAQ
Prepare the different ingredients 2-3 days ahead and store them in separate containers in the fridge. Then, toss the salad with the dressing up to 12 hours ahead of time, and finally, add the seeds and bacon before serving.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
This salad must stay cool. We like to serve the salad in a bowl nestled into a larger bowl of ice. Be cautious about leaving it out for longer than a couple of hours, or less if the temperature is on the higher side.
Complete the Meal
Main Dishes
Best Hamburger Recipe
20 mins
Dr. Pepper Ribs
3 hrs 15 mins
Pulled Pork Recipe
8 hrs 5 mins
Flat Iron Steak Recipe
2 hrs 35 mins
Desserts
Summer Salads
Collections
This recipe was originally published June 2017.
One of the best side dishes ever!!
So creamy and delicious! I buy the big pre-cut bags of broccoli florets at costco.
one of the best broccoli salads ever!!
Yay!! Thank you so much for sharing that!
I’m always LOoking for Keto friendly food for my husband. I used a sugar SUBSTITUTE and used full fat Mayo. He loved it and so did I. the combination of all the ingredients was so good. Thanks!
This is my fave!
BROCCOLI salad is my favorite! It always makes an APPEARANCE at family get togethers!
Broccoli salad is a favorite in our home. Its usually A dish we serve in the summertime but actually good anytime of the year. Its one of those diShes that you can add oR take away ingredients.
This is the best broccoli salad! I love the flavor, it’s very easy to make, & always gone in minutes!
Great rEcipe
Thank you so much!!
Hello! Im planning to make this salad for anget together this weekend. Quick question, did you Cook the bacon for this salad or do you think it would be ok to use the precooked bacon bought feom the store?
Definitely either would work! I’ve done both 🙂 Have fun!