This recipe is a perfect combination of crisp textures and savory flavors. Packed with crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, red onions, and sunflower seeds, this salad is tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that brings everything together. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ, a potluck, or just a quick side dish, this broccoli salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients, making it both delicious and wholesome. Let’s dive into this easy, irresistible recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ small red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Dice the red onion finely.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries (if using).
- Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss everything until well coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra bacon or sunflower seeds if desired.