Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon

This crunchy broccoli salad with a creamy, sweet dressing and crispy bacon is perfect for potlucks or quick side dishes. It's fresh, addictive, and can be made ahead of time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli, cut into small bite-size florets Smaller pieces mean better coating and easier eating.
6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled Thick cut is great, but any bacon works.
1/4 cup red onion, chopped Use less if you are onion shy or soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
1/2 cup sunflower seeds Sliced almonds may also be used.
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins Provides a sweet pop.

Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise Can substitute half with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
1 tablespoon sugar or honey Adds a sweet note to balance the flavors.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Brings tang and prevents heaviness.
to taste salt and pepper Taste at the end as bacon may add salt.

Method

Preparation

Cook the bacon until crispy and let it cool.
Chop the broccoli into small florets and thin slices of the stem.
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar or honey, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir until everything is coated.
Fold in most of the bacon, saving some for garnishing before serving.
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes, ideally for an hour.

Notes

If the salad seems a little dry after a day, add a spoonful of mayo or splash of vinegar to refresh it without restarting.