If you’re looking for a satisfying side dish that combines freshness with a punch of flavor, this Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a must-try. It seamlessly combines crunchy broccoli with savory bacon and sweet cranberries, making it a great complement to your holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 8

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy.
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable to suit different dietary preferences.
• Uses simple ingredients available year-round.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces broccoli florets (about 5 cups): Provides the crunchy base of the salad. Ensure florets are bite-sized for easy eating.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Adds a subtle sweetness. If unavailable, raisins or chopped dates work well too.
• ½ cup bacon crumbles (or 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled): Offers smoky flavor. Use turkey bacon for a lighter variant.
• 1 red onion, diced: Delivers sharp, pungent taste that complements the other flavors. Opt for sweet onion if you prefer milder taste.
• ½ cup toasted sunflower kernels: Adds nutty crunch. Toasting enhances their flavor, but pumpkin seeds can be an alternative.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: Binds the salad with its creamy texture. For a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Provides tanginess to balance the mayonnaise. White vinegar is a suitable substitute.
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar. Use honey if you prefer a natural sweetener.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates the salad’s flavors. Sea salt can also be used.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth. Adjust according to taste.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Combine broccoli florets, dried cranberries, bacon crumbles, diced red onion, and toasted sunflower kernels in a large mixing bowl. Ensuring all components are evenly distributed provides a balanced taste and texture in every bite.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until smooth. The goal is a creamy, cohesive dressing that isn’t too thick or runny, allowing it to fully coat the salad ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a large mixing spoon to gently toss until every element is well-coated. This ensures each bite is flavorful. Serve it immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this broccoli salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare and combine the salad ingredients and dressing separately, then mix them a few hours before serving. This helps retain the broccoli’s crunch.

How long will leftovers keep?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the ingredients might soften slightly over time, the flavors will remain intact.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely. Consider adding shredded cheese for richness, or chopped nuts for additional crunch. Flexibility with ingredients lets you adjust the salad according to your preference.