Introduction
Easy Broccoli Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that mixes crisp broccoli with a creamy dressing, crunchy add-ins, and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. It is a popular side for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, and quick weeknight meals.
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Description
This recipe features fresh raw broccoli tossed with a simple dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness. Combined with add-ins like red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries, the texture is crunchy, creamy, and satisfying. It requires no cooking and can be made in minutes.
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Ingredients
Salad Base
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts
Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon pieces
Dressing
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
1–2 tablespoons sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Instructions
1. Prepare the salad
1. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
2. Dice the red onion.
3. Place broccoli, onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds (and bacon, if using) in a large bowl.
2. Make the dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar or honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
3. Combine
1. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
2. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes for best flavor and texture.
4. Serve
1. Give the salad a quick toss before serving.
2. Add extra seeds or bacon on top if desired.
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Tips
Chill the salad before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Chop broccoli into small pieces for a better bite and even coating.
If using raw onion, soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Use light mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
Add more vinegar if you prefer a tangier dressing.
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Variations
Sweet version: Add grapes or diced apples.
Savory version: Add shredded cheddar cheese.
Healthy version: Use half Greek yogurt, half mayo, and honey instead of sugar.
Nutty version: Use pecans, almonds, or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds.
Crunchy version: Add shredded carrots or celery.
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Correction
If your broccoli salad does not turn out as expected:
Too watery: Chill longer to allow dressing to thicken; also ensure broccoli is dry before mixing.
Too sweet: Reduce sugar and add a bit more vinegar.
Too tangy: Add a small amount of sugar or mayo.
Lacks flavor: Increase salt slightly or add more onion, bacon, or seeds.
Broccoli too tough: Blanch florets for 20–30 seconds and cool immediately, if you prefer softer texture.
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Enjoy
Serve Easy Broccoli Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, casseroles, or as part of a picnic spread. It also keeps well in the refrigerator for several days.