A crisp broccoli salad tossed in a simple tangy homemade dressing. This fresh broccoli salad comes together quickly and is always a hit at gatherings, potlucks, and parties.
Broccoli salad is one of my favorite go-to side dishes when I need something quick, fresh, and satisfying. Serve it alongside burgers and roasted or grilled potatoes for an easy meal. You can customize this recipe by tossing in crumbled bacon, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, red onion, or other additions to create your own variation of this classic salad.
How to make the best broccoli salad
This is a simple, fresh broccoli salad that doesn’t require cooking the broccoli. It’s fast to prepare and relies on a creamy, tangy dressing to bring everything together. The basic steps are:
- Chop raw broccoli into bite-sized florets and place them in a large bowl.
- Add mix-ins such as cooked crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and finely diced red onion.
- Whisk the dressing, pour it over the broccoli mixture, and toss to coat.
- Cover and chill for at least three hours to let the flavors meld.
What dressing goes on broccoli salad?
While some recipes use vinaigrette, this version uses a creamy, mayonnaise-based dressing. It’s made with just three ingredients: mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar. Whisk them together until the sugar dissolves, then toss with the broccoli and add-ins for a balanced tangy-sweet finish.
Broccoli salad is a classic at summer cookouts and holiday potlucks—alongside potato or macaroni salad it completes the spread. The combination of crunchy raw broccoli, salty bacon, sharp cheddar, and sweet-tangy dressing converts skeptics into fans. Make the salad ahead and chill for a few hours so the flavors blend; it’s even better after resting.
Recipe Card
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 2 fresh broccoli heads cut into small florets
- ½ red onion finely diced
- 4-6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoon white vinegar
- ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving so the flavors can meld.
Notes