Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a refreshing, crunchy, and flavor-packed side dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weekday meals. Crisp broccoli florets are tossed with smoky bacon, sharp red onions, tangy cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all coated in a rich, creamy dressing. It’s a delicious way to enjoy raw veggies with a satisfying texture and bold flavor.

ingredients

The BEST Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh broccolired onionbacon (cooked and crumbled)dried cranberriessunflower seedsmayonnaiseGreek yogurtapple cider vinegarhoney Dijon mustardsaltblack pepper

directions

Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets and place in a large bowl.

Thinly slice the red onion and add to the broccoli.

Add the cooked, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds to the bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Before serving, give it a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Swap dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dates.

Use chopped almonds or pecans instead of sunflower seeds.

Add shredded carrots or chopped apples for extra crunch and sweetness.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon or using a plant-based alternative.

Add shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Do not freeze, as the texture of the raw broccoli will change.

Serve cold straight from the fridge—no reheating required.

FAQs

Can I make broccoli salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavors meld together.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is best for this recipe to maintain the crisp texture.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, simply omit the dried cranberries or use a low-carb substitute.

Can I substitute the mayo?

You can use all Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the flavor will be slightly tangier.

Why is my salad watery?

Make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli after washing to avoid excess moisture.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs work well.

Conclusion

The BEST Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a crisp, flavorful dish that brings together a variety of textures and tastes in one bowl. It’s quick to prepare, great for making ahead, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a light lunch, this broccoli salad will be a standout favorite every time.