A Fresh Broccoli Salad for Every Occasion: Delicious Delight

A fresh broccoli salad for every occasion is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Imagine vibrant green florets mingling with crispy bacon bits, nuts, and a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. broccoli fritters recipe Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it the perfect companion for picnics, barbecues, or even a cozy family dinner.

This delightful salad transports me back to my childhood summers spent at family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates overflowed with delicious food. Every time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of those sunny days and the joy it brought to our table. The anticipation of that first forkful always brings a smile. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends; their faces lit up in surprise and delight when they tasted it.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use bright green florets that are firm and tightly closed for the best flavor.
• Crispy Bacon: Cook until golden brown and crispy for that irresistible crunch.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced to add a sharp contrast of flavor and color.
• Sunflower Seeds: Add a nice nutty crunch; feel free to toast them for extra flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: These provide a sweet-tart balance that complements the savory elements beautifully.
• Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for creaminess; consider adding Greek yogurt for tanginess if desired.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness; adjust to taste based on your preference for tangy flavors.
• Sugar: Just a hint balances out the acidity from the vinegar perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing and cutting your fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Ensure you remove any tough stems, leaving only the tender parts.

Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain excess fat on paper towels while allowing them to cool slightly.

Mix Dressing Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, red onion slices, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Pour dressing over and mix gently until everything is well-coated.

Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully for an unforgettable taste experience.

Enjoy your freshly made salad! It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a light lunch on its own!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by blanching the broccoli to maintain its bright green color and crisp texture. Drain well before mixing with other ingredients for optimal flavor and presentation.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out nuts or add different cheeses based on your preference. Dried cranberries or apples can also provide a sweet contrast to the savory elements.

Storing & Reheating

Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so no reheating necessary—just grab and go!

Sharing this salad recipe reminds me of summer picnics with friends, where laughter mingled with the crunch of fresh veggies. lemon dill salmon salad Everyone always asked for seconds!

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for A Fresh Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw and drain it well before mixing.

What dressing pairs well with broccoli salad?

A tangy vinaigrette or creamy ranch works wonders for flavor.

How can I make my salad more filling?

Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier. balsamic cranberry chicken. garlic parmesan chicken rigatoni.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Fresh Broccoli Salad

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

This fresh broccoli salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crisp broccoli florets, savory bacon, and a sweet-tangy dressing, each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. This salad not only brings back fond memories of summer gatherings but also adds a burst of color to your table, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
• 6 slices crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets; remove tough stems.
2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess fat on paper towels.
3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, red onion slices, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Pour dressing over and mix gently until well-coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg