If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will brighten up your table, this Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is an absolute winner. Crunchy broccoli florets mingle with sweet dried cranberries, nutty sunflower seeds, and sharp shredded cheddar, all enveloped in a luscious, tangy creamy dressing that perfectly balances each bite. Whether as a refreshing side for a summer BBQ or a quick addition to a weeknight dinner, this salad brings together simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with color, texture, and unforgettable taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe so delightful is how each simple ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crisp broccoli to the creamy, tangy dressing, every element counts.
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups): The star of the salad, providing a crisp, vibrant base full of nutrients and crunch.
- Red onion (1/2 small, finely diced): Adds a subtle sharpness and color contrast to brighten the salad.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup): Bring a natural sweetness and chewy texture that balances the savory elements.
- Sunflower seeds (1/2 cup): Offer a nutty crunch, or swap for chopped almonds if you prefer a different twist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Layer in a creamy, slightly sharp depth, with an option for vegan cheddar to keep it plant-based.
- Savory bits (1/2 cup, optional): These add an extra hit of flavor and crunch for those who want a little more excitement.
- Mayonnaise (3/4 cup): The creamy base of our dressing, choosing vegan mayo works wonderfully too.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 1/2 tbsp): Injects a tangy zip that lifts the entire salad.
- Maple syrup (1 tbsp): Balances acidity with a gentle sweetness—honey is a great alternative.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, seasoning that rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. This creamy dressing is the heart of the salad, marrying sweetness and tanginess with a smooth texture that coats every bite.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli, finely diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and savory bits if you’re using them. Each ingredient adds a unique element, from the crunch of seeds to the juicy burst of cranberries.
Step 3: Toss to Coat
Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything until the broccoli and extras are evenly coated. This step ensures every forkful is packed with flavor and luscious creaminess.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and softens the broccoli slightly while keeping it fresh and crisp.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra sunflower seeds or almonds over the top for added crunch, or scatter fresh chopped parsley or chives to introduce a herbaceous note and brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken or salmon, adding a fresh and tangy complement to richer main dishes. It’s also fantastic alongside sandwiches or as part of a picnic spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a vibrant, clear glass bowl to show off all its colorful ingredients. For a fun twist, try layering it in individual mason jars for portable lunches or party servings that look as delightful as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first two for optimal texture.
Freezing
Due to the fresh broccoli and creamy dressing, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing will cause the texture of the ingredients to become soggy and affect the overall flavor, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and is not intended for reheating. If you prefer a warmer side, try pairing with a warm main dish instead.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Fresh broccoli is ideal for this salad because it retains a crisp texture. Frozen broccoli tends to be softer and waterier once thawed, which can affect the salad’s crunch and overall enjoyment.
Is there a dairy-free version of the creamy dressing?
Absolutely! Use vegan mayonnaise and substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based alternative. This keeps the salad creamy and flavorful while being suitable for dairy-free diets.
Can I add other nuts or seeds?
Yes, feel free to customize the salad with your favorite nuts or seeds. Pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds all make delicious alternatives or additions to the sunflower seeds.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling for at least 20 to 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly, creating the perfect balance of crispness and flavor.
Can this salad be made ahead for parties?
Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare it a few hours in advance and keep refrigerated. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines healthful ingredients with irresistible flavor and textures. It’s easy to make, flexible, and always impressive. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salad that everyone asks you to bring to every meal.
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Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and crunchy broccoli salad tossed with a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. This refreshing salad combines fresh broccoli florets, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and optional savory bits for added texture and flavor. Perfect as a healthy side dish or a light meal, this recipe comes together quickly and is ideal for potlucks, picnics, or everyday lunches.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheddar)
- 1/2 cup savory bits (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
- Make the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, finely diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and savory bits if using. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly without crushing them.
- Toss to Coat: Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything together carefully to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and softens the broccoli slightly for a more pleasant texture. Serve chilled for best taste.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use vegan cheddar cheese or omit cheese.
- Sunflower seeds can be replaced with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans based on preference.
- Savory bits are optional but add a nice crunch and additional flavor complexity.
- Adjust sweetness and acidity by modifying the amount of maple syrup and apple cider vinegar to taste.
- Best served chilled but can be served at room temperature if needed.
