Welcome to the definitive guide for crafting the ultimate Broccoli Salad! This fresh, crunchy, and irresistibly creamy salad combines crisp broccoli florets, savory bacon, sweet raisins, crunchy sunflower seeds, and robust walnuts, all coated in a perfectly balanced, tangy-sweet dressing. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures that promises to be the star of any meal, potluck, or gathering.

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The Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe: A Fresh & Flavorful Delight

Broccoli salad is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary classic, beloved for its incredible freshness and satisfying crunch. What truly sets this recipe apart is its unique sweet and sour style dressing, which beautifully marries all the diverse ingredients into a harmonious whole. Packed with nutrient-rich broccoli, smoky bacon, chewy raisins, sharp cheddar cheese, and wholesome sunflower seeds, this salad miraculously manages to taste light and refreshing despite its rich components. If you appreciate a hearty yet bright salad, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your repertoire.

Closeup overhead photo of a vibrant broccoli salad, showcasing its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing.

“I absolutely love this recipe! It’s quick, easy, and full of fiber. This is a great dish to prepare for your book club meeting or for a ladies’ brunch. Try it once and you’ll fall in love.”
– Cidney

Why This Broccoli Salad Stands Out

There are countless broccoli salad recipes, but this particular version has earned its place as a perennial favorite for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the harmonious blend of textures is simply unparalleled. You get the crisp bite of fresh broccoli, the satisfying chew of raisins, the smoky crunch of bacon, and the nutty resistance of sunflower seeds and walnuts. This textural variety keeps every forkful interesting and engaging.

Secondly, the dressing is a game-changer. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy, which perfectly coats every ingredient without overpowering them. The subtle sweetness from the sugar combined with the bright acidity of vinegar creates a dressing that enhances, rather than masks, the natural flavors of the vegetables and additions. This isn’t just a basic mayo dressing; it’s a carefully crafted flavor enhancer.

Finally, its versatility makes it incredibly appealing. Whether you need a quick weeknight side, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a vibrant addition to a holiday spread, this broccoli salad delivers. It’s also surprisingly adaptable to different dietary preferences, allowing for easy substitutions to make it vegetarian or nut-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of this sensational dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Salad

Can broccoli salad be made a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, making broccoli salad a day ahead often enhances its flavor profile. Allowing it to chill overnight gives all the ingredients ample time to meld together, deepening the delicious sweet and sour notes of the dressing. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ensure every bite is perfect.

Is it safe to eat raw broccoli?

Yes, it is entirely safe and highly beneficial to eat broccoli raw! Raw broccoli retains more of its heat-sensitive nutrients, such as Vitamin C and certain sulforaphane compounds, which are known for their health benefits. As with all fresh produce, ensure you rinse the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water before chopping and adding it to your salad to remove any dirt or residues.

How much broccoli salad per person should I plan for?

When estimating quantities for your guests, a good rule of thumb for broccoli salad is about one cup per person. This allows for a generous side portion, but you might consider adding a little extra if it’s the only side dish or if you know your guests have particularly hearty appetites for salads. It’s always better to have a little too much than not enough!

What goes well with broccoli salad?

This versatile broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with a wide array of main courses. I frequently serve it alongside grilled proteins like grilled chicken thighs, tender grilled pork ribs, or comforting slow-cooked pulled pork. Its fresh and tangy profile also complements seafood beautifully, making it an excellent accompaniment for baked salmon, grilled shrimp, or pan-seared scallops. For a lighter meal, it’s fantastic with a simple sandwich or wrap.

Where can I find broccoli florets in the grocery store?

You can typically find bags of pre-chopped fresh broccoli florets in the produce section of your grocery store, usually located near the bagged lettuces and other pre-cut vegetables. If you can’t find florets, don’t worry! Simply purchase a couple of fresh broccoli crowns or bunches, trim off the thick, woody stalks, and then chop the florets into bite-sized pieces yourself. It’s important to avoid using frozen broccoli florets for this recipe, as they tend to release too much moisture and won’t maintain the desired crisp texture.

How long does broccoli salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, broccoli salad will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Keep in mind that while the flavors will continue to meld, the broccoli florets will gradually lose some of their initial crispness the longer they sit in the dressing. For optimal crunch, enjoy it within the first two days.

A serving of broccoli salad presented in a shallow white bowl on a rustic wooden surface, highlighting its vibrant colors.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Broccoli Salad

Crafting this incredible broccoli salad requires a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in its irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips:

Fresh Broccoli Florets: The star of the show! It’s absolutely vital to use fresh broccoli for this recipe. Frozen florets, when thawed, become watery and soft, which will compromise the desired crisp texture of the salad. Opt for bright green, firm broccoli crowns and chop them into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
Crispy Bacon: Adds a wonderful smoky, salty, and savory crunch. You can fry up fresh bacon strips until perfectly crisp, use pre-cooked microwave bacon for convenience, or even purchase pre-made bacon pieces. Ensure it’s thoroughly crumbled before adding.
Sweet Raisins: These provide a delightful burst of sweetness and a chewy contrast to the crunchy ingredients. If raisins aren’t your preference, dried cranberries (like Craisins) are an excellent substitute, offering a similar sweetness with a touch more tartness.
Crunchy Chopped Walnuts: Walnuts contribute a lovely earthy flavor and an additional layer of crunch. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, pecans or even slivered almonds make fantastic alternatives. For those with nut allergies, feel free to omit them entirely or substitute with extra sunflower seeds for crunch.
Zesty Red Onion: Red onion brings a sharp, pungent bite that perfectly cuts through the richness of the dressing and bacon. If you find raw red onion too strong, a simple trick is to soak the finely chopped pieces in a bowl of ice water for about 10-15 minutes. This process significantly mellows their flavor without losing their characteristic color and mild oniony essence.
Nutty Sunflower Kernels: These are shelled sunflower seeds, easily found in the baking or snack aisle near other nuts and dried fruits in your grocery store. They offer a unique, slightly buttery crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
Sharp Shredded Cheese: I typically use finely shredded cheddar cheese for its classic flavor and excellent melting qualities if the salad sits for a bit. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses you enjoy, such as colby jack, mild cheddar, or even a sharp white cheddar for a more sophisticated note.
Creamy Mayonnaise: The backbone of our delicious dressing! For the best results, use real, full-fat mayonnaise. Brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s (Best Foods on the West Coast) are excellent choices known for their rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor. Avoid “salad dressing” products like Miracle Whip, as their flavor profile is significantly different.
Granulated Sugar: While it might seem unconventional for a savory salad, a small amount of granulated sugar is crucial for achieving that signature sweet and sour balance in the dressing. It’s not meant to make the salad overly sweet, but rather to complement the tanginess of the vinegar and enhance the overall flavor complexity.
Tangy Vinegar: I prefer apple cider vinegar for its fruity, slightly sweet tang that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients. However, white vinegar works perfectly fine as well, offering a clean, sharp acidity to the dressing.

Individual ingredients for broccoli salad laid out: broccoli, bacon, mayonnaise, raisins, sugar, vinegar, red onions, and cheese.

How to Make the Perfect Creamy Broccoli Salad: Step-by-Step

Creating this delightful broccoli salad is incredibly simple and quick, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal. Follow these easy steps to bring this flavorful dish to life:

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

In a medium-sized bowl, or a lidded jar for easy shaking, combine the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, vinegar (apple cider or white), and fresh black pepper. Using a whisk, thoroughly combine all ingredients until the dressing is smooth and evenly blended. If using a jar, simply secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well emulsified. This dressing is the heart of the salad, so ensure it’s perfectly mixed.

A bowl of mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar being whisked together to form the creamy dressing.

A mason jar with dressing ingredients being vigorously shaken to combine them.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add your prepared fresh broccoli florets, crispy crumbled bacon, sweet raisins, chopped walnuts, finely chopped red onion, and sunflower kernels. If you’re including cheese, add the shredded cheddar cheese at this stage as well. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed in the bowl before adding the dressing.

A large bowl containing all the dry salad ingredients: broccoli, bacon, raisins, walnuts, onions, sunflower seeds, and cheese.

Step 3: Dress and Mix the Salad

Once your dressing is ready and your salad ingredients are in the bowl, pour the creamy dressing generously over the top of the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, give everything a really good stir. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the broccoli florets and other ingredients are completely coated in the dressing. Ensure no dry spots remain.

The creamy dressing being poured over the mixed salad ingredients in a large bowl.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor and texture, cover the bowl and refrigerate the broccoli salad for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to deepen and the broccoli to slightly soften while still retaining its delightful crispness. If you’ve made it a day ahead, simply stir again before serving. Present your creamy broccoli salad in a beautiful serving bowl and watch it disappear!

A fully combined broccoli salad in a shallow white bowl with a silver serving spoon, ready to be enjoyed.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad Every Time

Always Use Fresh Broccoli: This cannot be stressed enough. Fresh, crisp broccoli is fundamental to the salad’s texture. Frozen broccoli will lead to a watery, mushy result.
Bite-Sized Florets: Ensure your broccoli florets are chopped into uniform, small, bite-sized pieces. This makes the salad easier to eat and ensures every ingredient is evenly distributed.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time: While you can serve it immediately, allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour (or even overnight) significantly improves the flavor. The dressing has time to seep into the broccoli, and all the ingredients have a chance to meld.
Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: Taste your dressing before combining it with the salad. If you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more sugar. If you like it tangier, a little extra vinegar will do the trick.
Crisp Bacon is Key: Soggy bacon is a no-go. Cook your bacon until it’s very crispy, then drain off excess fat and crumble it well.
Soak Red Onions: If you’re sensitive to the sharp bite of raw red onion, soaking them in ice water for 10-15 minutes will mellow their flavor without removing their beautiful color.
Toast Your Nuts (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast your walnuts or sunflower seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
Make It Your Own: This recipe is a fantastic base. Feel free to experiment with other dried fruits (like dried cherries), nuts (pecans, almonds), or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Explore More Delicious Salad Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with this creamy broccoli salad, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other fresh and satisfying salad creations. Here are some fantastic recipes to inspire your next meal:

Copycat Chick-Fil-A Superfood Salad: A healthy and vibrant side packed with nutritious greens.
Classic Carrot Raisin Salad: A sweet and simple salad that evokes nostalgic flavors.
Asian Ramen Salad: Crunchy, savory, and incredibly flavorful, perfect for an exotic twist.
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Another delightful crunchy salad, similar in spirit but with added cauliflower.
Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad: A fresh take on a classic Caesar, using shaved Brussels sprouts.
Caprese Pasta Salad: Italian-inspired, with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad: Recreate a restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.
Caesar Basil Pasta Salad: Combining the best of Caesar with aromatic fresh basil.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A creamy and tangy island-inspired classic.
Pea Salad with Ham: A simple, comforting, and surprisingly addictive salad.
Tuna Macaroni Salad: A hearty and satisfying meal prep option.
Italian Chopped Salad: Fresh, crisp, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Salad: A fun, kid-friendly twist on pasta salad.
Taco Pasta Salad: All your favorite taco flavors in a refreshing salad.
BLT Pasta Salad: The classic sandwich transformed into a delightful pasta salad.
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad: For pickle lovers, a tangy and unique creation.
The Best Macaroni Salad: A foundational recipe for any potluck or BBQ.
Amish Macaroni Salad: Sweet, creamy, and wonderfully comforting.
Chicken Macaroni Salad: A protein-packed meal in a bowl.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: A complete meal with grilled chicken and Caesar dressing.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: The ultimate comfort food combo.
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Inspired by the viral sandwich, packed with deli flavors.
Pesto Pasta Salad: Fresh, herbaceous, and incredibly aromatic.
Spaghetti Salad: An unexpected and delicious twist on cold pasta salads.

Creamy Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad recipe delivers a fresh, crunchy salad with vibrant broccoli, savory bacon, sweet raisins, hearty sunflower seeds, and robust walnuts, all brought together by a delicious, creamy, sweet-and-tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side for any occasion!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 8

Author: Brandie Skibinski

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Ingredients

For the dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup granulated sugar
3 Tablespoons vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon fresh black pepper

For the salad:

5 cups fresh broccoli florets
½ pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup raisins (or dried cranberries)
½ cup chopped walnuts (or almonds/pecans)
½ cup finely chopped red onion
½ cup sunflower kernels
1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

In a separate medium bowl or lidded jar, prepare the dressing. Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and black pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth.
In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, raisins, walnuts, chopped red onions, sunflower kernels, and shredded cheese.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Give everything a really good stir to ensure all components are evenly coated. Serve immediately, or for best flavor, allow it to chill in the refrigerator (covered) for at least an hour before serving.

Video

Notes

Refer to the FAQ’s and ingredient list above for detailed substitutions and answers to common questions.
For a milder onion flavor, you could use chopped green onions instead of red onion, but the red onion adds a beautiful color and distinct taste to the salad.
This salad can be made a day ahead of time and should be stored in a bowl with an airtight lid in the refrigerator. Just remember to stir well again before serving.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Nutrition Facts (Estimate per serving)

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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Originally published: April 2012
Updated & Republished: January 2023