This Easy Broccoli Salad is the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and flavorful, making it a great side dish for any occasion! Packed with fresh broccoli, cheese, bacon, and a delicious coleslaw dressing, this salad comes together in minutes and is ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or a healthy side dish. Plus, it’s completely customizable—add your favorite mix-ins to make it your own!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
✔ 2 (12-ounce) bags of raw broccoli florets 🥦
✔ ½ cup red onion, chopped 🧅
✔ 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
✔ ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped 🥓
✔ 1 cup creamy coleslaw dressing 🥛 (Choose a low-carb option if following keto)
✔ ½ cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts (optional for crunch) 🌰
✔ Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
For Extra Flavor (Optional):
✔ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 🍏 (adds a slight tang)
✔ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 🌿 (enhances depth of flavor)
✔ ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (for a sweet balance) 🍇
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Ingredients:
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- Finely dice the red onion.
- Cook and crumble the bacon if not already prepared.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing (Optional Step for Extra Flavor):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the coleslaw dressing, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until smooth.
3️⃣ Combine Everything:
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon.
- If using, add sunflower seeds, nuts, or dried cranberries.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the salad.
- Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Give it a good stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Enjoy this delicious, crunchy, and creamy salad!
Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad
✔ Make it Creamier: Add more dressing if you prefer an extra creamy texture.
✔ Customize the Flavor: Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for tanginess.
✔ Add a Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or chopped pecans for extra texture.
✔ Want it Sweeter? Mix in a teaspoon of honey or a handful of dried cranberries for a sweet balance.
✔ Make it Keto-Friendly: Ensure your coleslaw dressing has 2g carbs or less and omit sweet additions like dried fruit.
✔ Roast the Broccoli: If you prefer a slightly cooked texture, roast the broccoli at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes before mixing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy: Only 5 minutes of prep time!
✔ No Cooking Required: Perfect for busy days.
✔ Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Just use a low-carb dressing!
✔ Crowd-Pleaser: A favorite at BBQs, picnics, and holiday gatherings.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
✔ Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish, a lunch option, or even a main course with added protein.
Variations to Try
🥑 Broccoli Avocado Salad: Add chopped avocado for extra creaminess.
🍗 Chicken Broccoli Salad: Toss in grilled or shredded chicken for added protein.
🥒 Broccoli Cucumber Salad: Mix in diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
🥚 Egg & Broccoli Salad: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.
🌰 Nutty Broccoli Salad: Sprinkle in walnuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
🧄 Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Salad: Mix in minced garlic and grated Parmesan for extra richness.
🍋 Lemon Herb Broccoli Salad: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add fresh herbs for a zesty variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli works best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture.
How long does this salad last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, making it a great make-ahead option.
What’s the best dressing for broccoli salad?
A creamy coleslaw dressing works best, but you can also use ranch, Caesar, or Greek yogurt-based dressings.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Just swap the cheddar cheese for dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
Can I substitute the bacon?
Of course! Try turkey bacon, crispy tofu, or even smoked almonds for a vegetarian version.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your dressing and add-ins are gluten-free.
This Easy Broccoli Salad is the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and smoky bacon goodness. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a potluck dish, or a nutritious side, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, you can whip up this salad in no time. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, delicious, and effortless salad packed with bold flavors! 🥦🧀🥓