Best Broccoli Salad Recipe (Easy, Make-ahead recipe)
Experience the joy of vibrant flavors and textures with the Best Broccoli Salad Recipe (Easy, Make-ahead recipe). This delightful dish combines crunchy broccoli florets, sweet dried cranberries, and nutty sunflower seeds, all enveloped in a creamy dressing that balances sweetness and tang. Perfect for any occasion—from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings—this salad can be prepared ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. Each bite is a refreshing taste of nostalgia, reminiscent of cheerful picnics and family dinners. Simple to make yet utterly satisfying, this salad will be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup plant-based bacon bits (or crispy chickpeas)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- â…“ cup red onion (diced)
- â…“ cup sunflower seeds
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 and ½ tablespoons coconut sugar (or honey)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or avocado mayo)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and coconut sugar until dissolved. Slowly add mayonnaise while whisking until smooth; season with salt and pepper.
- Wash broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and plant-based bacon bits.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg