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

Scale

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

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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.