Ben Kenwood November 11, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Best Broccoli Salad

Name: Best Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/2 cup sunflower seeds; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Imagine a sunny picnic under a leafy tree, the scent of fresh greens wafting through the air, mingling with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the tang of creamy dressing. This is the essence of the Best Broccoli Salad. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, family barbecues, or as a vibrant side dish for any dinner, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but a deliciously satisfying treat that brightens any meal.

What Makes This Special

You’ll love making the Best Broccoli Salad because it perfectly combines crunchy textures, sweet flavors, and just the right amount of creaminess. It’s a dish that delights both young and old alike, providing a nutritious boost without sacrificing taste. Here are some reasons to adore this recipe:

Packed with vitamins and nutrients
Quick and easy to prepare
Versatile enough for any occasion
Perfect for meal prep
Family-friendly flavors

Gather These Ingredients

In creating the Best Broccoli Salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh and crunchy ingredients, complemented by a creamy dressing that brings everything together. With a few simple swaps — like using turkey bacon for a leaner option — this salad becomes a delicious yet healthier choice.

3 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step

Creating the Best Broccoli Salad is a breeze, with simple steps that pack in all the flavor and nutrition.

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled turkey bacon, dried cranberries, shredded cheese, and sunflower seeds. The vibrant colors will catch your eye, and the textures promise a delightful crunch.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. The aroma of the dressing will tantalize your senses, adding a sweet zing to your salad.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring every piece is coated with that creamy goodness. The visual appeal is irresistible!
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a taste sensation with every bite.

Prep ~ 10 min, Cook ~ 0 min, Total ~ 40 min (including chilling), Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 300 (estimate).

Plan Ahead

The Best Broccoli Salad is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the broccoli, turkey bacon, cranberries, cheese, and sunflower seeds ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, mix the dressing and toss everything together. This dish stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Best Broccoli Salad, leftovers can be easily stored. Place any remaining salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, it can also be frozen, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly once thawed. For reheating, simply bring it back to room temperature gently to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.

Perfect Pairings

Wondering what to serve alongside the Best Broccoli Salad? Here are some delightful options:

Grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost
Quinoa or a light grain salad for a wholesome meal
Fresh fruit skewers for a touch of sweetness
A platter of assorted cheeses and crackers
Whole grain rolls to complement the texture

Make It Your Own

Getting creative with the Best Broccoli Salad can lead to delicious new variations! Consider these fun ideas:

Swap out the turkey bacon for roasted chickpeas for a completely vegetarian option.
Add diced apples or pears for a crunchy, sweet twist.
Use different nuts like almonds or pecans for varying textures.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or pepper jack for added flavor.
Toss in some chopped bell peppers for extra color and crunch.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For the ultimate Best Broccoli Salad, keep these tips in mind:

Use fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture.
Let the salad sit in the fridge longer than 30 minutes if you want the flavors to develop even more.
Adjust the dressing ingredients to fit your taste preferences; add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
Make sure your turkey bacon is crispy; it adds a great crunch!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? Fresh cranberries will be much more tart, so consider adding a bit more honey to balance the flavors.
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients in the Best Broccoli Salad are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this salad vegan? Choosing a plant-based mayonnaise and omitting the turkey bacon can easily transform this salad into a vegan dish.
How do I make the salad less creamy? You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or substitute some with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.
What is the best way to chop broccoli? Cut the broccoli head into quarters and slice each quarter into smaller florets for uniform size, which helps with even mixing and cooking.

Final Thoughts

The Best Broccoli Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and colors that fits perfectly into any meal or gathering. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and brings a balanced taste that pleases palates of all ages. So gather your ingredients, and let this delightful salad become a new favorite in your home. Don’t wait; make the Best Broccoli Salad soon and enjoy a bowl of goodness!

Best Broccoli Salad

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant and crunchy salad combining fresh broccoli, turkey bacon, and a creamy dressing, perfect for outdoor gatherings and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled turkey bacon, dried cranberries, shredded cheese, and sunflower seeds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.