This Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad is crunchy, colorful, and so tasty! With fresh broccoli, sweet raisins, and a creamy dressing, it’s a fun side dish for any meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just mix everything in a bowl and you’re ready to impress. Plus, who doesn’t love sneaking in some greens with a yummy twist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is a must for crunch! If it’s not in season, use frozen broccoli florets—just thaw and drain them well before mixing.
Dried Fruit: Cranberries add sweetness and color. If you’re not a fan, try raisins, chopped apples, or even chopped dates for a twist.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor it brings. For a vegetarian option, use crispy chickpeas or roasted nuts to add some crunch instead.
Feta Cheese: This adds a salty punch. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or simply skip it for a lighter salad.
Mayonnaise and Yogurt: The mayo gives creaminess, and the yogurt adds tang. Replace them with avocado for a creamy vegan dressing or use a dairy-free mayo alternative.
How Do You Perfectly Prepare Broccoli for Salad?
Getting your broccoli just right is key for this salad’s taste and texture. Here’s how to prepare it perfectly:
- Start by washing the broccoli under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Remove the thick stem and chop the florets into bite-sized pieces. This helps them mix well with the other ingredients.
- For an extra tender option, you can blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then plunge it in ice water to stop the cooking. This keeps the bright green color and makes it easier to chew.
- Pat dry any excess water before mixing, so your dressing doesn’t become watery.
Easy Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4 slices)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s quick to mix up, and the chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully for a refreshing dish!
Instructions:
1. Prep the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli under cold water to clean it. Chop it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl. This way, they’re easy to eat and mix with all the other yummy ingredients!
2. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Next, add the chopped red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins), crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese (if you’re using it) into the bowl with the broccoli. Give it a gentle toss so everything is nicely combined.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey (if you’re adding it), and a pinch of salt and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what brings everything together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to toss it all together gently, ensuring each bite is coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Chill and Set:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and helps soften the broccoli just a bit—so tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch it disappear at your table!
FAQ
Can I Use Store-Bought Dressing Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use your favorite store-bought ranch or creamy dressing. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The broccoli may soften slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, omit the bacon and feta, and use a vegan mayonnaise or tofu-based dressing. You can also add chickpeas or avocado for extra creaminess!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a healthier option or don’t have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt works well! You can also use mashed avocado for creaminess, or a mixture of both for a tasty twist.
