Broccoli Salad Recipe
Make this crowd-favorite broccoli salad with cheddar, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and creamy dressing. A fresh, fast side dish for parties or meal prep!
Servings 7 peopless
Calories 291kcal
Ingredients
Salad:
- 5 –6 cups broccoli florets about 2½ heads
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese thick shredded or cubed
- ⅔ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled real bacon about 8 strips cooked
- ½ cup salted sunflower seeds
- ⅓ cup red onion finely diced
Dressing:
- ¾ cup olive oil-based mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prep the broccoli
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the broccoli. Cut into small, bite-sized florets, discarding thick or woody stems. (If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the florets in boiling water for 60 seconds, then rinse under cold water and pat dry.)
Mix the salad base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar cheese, cranberries, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, and red onion. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly.
Make the dressing
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Combine and chill
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Stir or toss until all ingredients are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. (Overnight is even better.)
Serve and enjoy
- Give the salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with extra cheese or bacon bits if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 291 kcal |
| Total Fat | 19g |
| — Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| — Sugar | 12g |
| — Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 33mg |
| Sodium | 617mg |
| Potassium | 92mg |
| Vitamin A | 50 IU |
| Vitamin C | 4.1 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 0.7 mg |
Note: Values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands and serving sizes.