If you’re craving a salad that’s crisp, creamy, and a little sweet, this is it! One bite, and you’ll agree-this is The Best Damn Delicious Broccoli Salad Recipe out there. It is perfect for Barbecues, or just a great addition to your weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together and can be made ahead of time for even better flavor.
A few weeks ago, my boyfriend and I took a drive to Warwick, NY, and stopped for lunch at the cutest little café. We ordered wraps, and along with them came a side of broccoli salad. OMG, it was amazing! I loved it so much that I asked to take some home. Of course, I had to try recreating it—and when I did, my boyfriend said mine was even better! This recipe is definitely a keeper—so simple, yet so delicious.
One of the best things about this broccoli salad is how easy it is to make ahead of time! In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. As the salad sits, the flavors meld together—the tangy dressing soaks into the crisp broccoli, and everything becomes even more delicious.
You can prepare the entire salad the night before, cover it, and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just give it a quick toss before serving. It’s the perfect stress-free side dish for busy days or meal prep!
Since this salad is so easy to make, you’ll have plenty of time to whip up a few more delicious options for your guests—like Greek Orzo Pasta Salad and Caprese Pasta Salad. These pair perfectly for a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing spread!
Can I make broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes! Broccoli salad is actually better when made ahead of time because it allows the flavors to meld together. You can make it the day before, just give it a good stir before serving.
Do I need to cook the broccoli?
Nope! Raw broccoli gives the salad its crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, you can blanch it for 30 seconds and then quickly cool it in ice water.
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Nature’s Eats, Sliced Almonds, 24 OzOcean Spray Craisins Original Dried Cranberries, 24 Ounce Value PackBragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Honey Cayenne Wellness Cleanse with the Mother – 32 fl oz – Raw and UnfilteredGrey Poupon Dijon Mustard (16 oz Jar)LOVYANXUE Bamboo Fiber Salad Bowl with Servers Set Large 9.8inches Nature Bamboo Mixing Bowl with Servers with Lid Spoon and Fork for Fruits,Salads and Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Broccoli – Crisp, fresh, with a natural crunch.
- Red Onion – For a little bite
- Sliced Almonds – For crunch and nuttiness.
- Dried Cranberries – A touch of sweetness to balance everything out.
For the dressing:
- mayo (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- apple cider vinegar – Adds tang.
- honey – A little sweetness.
- Dijon mustard – rounds out the flavors.
- Salt & pepper to taste.
Try these additions:
- Healthier Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter dressing.
- Extra Crunch: Swap almonds for pecans, sunflower seeds, or walnuts.
- Fruit Additions: Try diced apples or grapes for a burst of freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Protein Boost: Toss in shredded chicken or chickpeas to make it a meal.
- Savory Dept: Add crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad
✔️ No Cooking Required – Just chop and mix!
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling.
✔️ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – A mix of crunch, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness.
Step by step Instructions:
1. Wash and dry your broccoli. Cut up into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl place your broccoli, dried cranberries, red onion and sliced almonds.
3. In a small bowl add your dressing ingredients, whisk together.
4. Pour dressing into the large mixing bowl and toss well.
5. Place salad into the fridge and allow to chill for at least 1 hour.
Storing Broccoli Salad:
Store the broccoli salad in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
The Best Damn Delicious Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: salad
- Method: no cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
7 cups fresh broccoli, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup dried cranberries
For the dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry your broccoli before chopping into small bite size pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
2 Responses
Visually the salad is so appealing. When I made this, I did not have mustard. But still so tasty. Thanks for the wonderful refreshing recipe .
Hi Helen, I am so glad you tried the broccoli salad and enjoyed it! You can try it with the mustard next time, it just adds a little zing!! lol