Why We Love This Broccoli Salad Recipe
The classic broccoli salad has had a makeover! My recipe is so creamy and delicious, it’s a perfect side to serve to friends and family over the holiday season.
Easy. This recipe takes just 15 minutes! Crunchy. This salad is loaded with texture from the crispy bacon, crunchy broccoli, and chewy sunflower seeds. Flavorful. Did I mention this salad has bacon in it?! The bacon adds a wonderful smokey and salty flavor to the dish and, let’s be honest, it’s everyone’s favorite bit! To add a festive element, I added cranberries, which add a hit of sweetness as well as a pop of color!
Variations on Broccoli Salad with Bacon
This is a great base salad that you can change up to suit your tastes and what you have on hand. The cranberries can be swapped out for raisins or another dried fruit (cherries, apricots, blueberries, etc.). The sunflower seeds can be subbed for a different nut or seed, like walnuts or almonds. And for a vegetarian-friendly salad, swap out the bacon for vegan bacon or roasted mushrooms.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I highly recommend storing the dressing and salad separately for the crispiest result.
Serving Suggestions
Because this salad is wonderfully creamy, it’s perfect to pair with salty foods such as bacon wrapped turkey breast, grilled hot dogs, or smoked ham. It’s also great with beef tenderloin or spatchcock chicken!
More Broccoli Salad Recipes To Try
Cheesy Broccoli Salad Charred Broccoli Salad
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Bacon Step by Step
Make the Salad: Place 24 ounces (5 cups) of broccoli florets, ½ cup of dried cranberries, ½ cup of bacon crumbles, 1 diced red onion, and ½ cup of toasted sunflower kernels in a large bowl. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Toss and Serve: Pour the mayo mixture over the broccoli and use a mixing spoon to toss/fully coat the broccoli. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to serve.
