Easy Broccoli Salad

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Easy Broccoli Salad

This broccoli salad comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how you can make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can chop the florets into smaller, more manageable chunks. It’s important to remove the thick stems, though you can save them for another use, such as in soups or smoothies.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets with the red onion, cheese (if using), seeds, dried fruit, and bacon bits (if using). You can also add nuts for extra crunch—sliced almonds or chopped walnuts are great options, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey (or sugar). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be creamy with a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors. If you want a slightly lighter dressing, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, which will add creaminess and protein.

Step 4: Toss and Combine

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. Make sure the dressing is well distributed so every bite is full of flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing. Once chilled, give it a quick toss and serve!

Optional Add-ins and Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how adaptable it is. You can add or substitute ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand:

• Fresh Fruit: Add apple slices, grapes, or strawberries for a burst of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
• Cheese: Swap out cheddar for another cheese, such as feta, blue cheese, or mozzarella, for different flavor profiles.
• Nuts & Seeds: Add roasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.
• Protein: To make it a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a protein boost.
• Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free dressing made with vegan mayonnaise, and replace the cheese with dairy-free alternatives. You can also skip the bacon bits for a completely plant-based version.

Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Salad

1. Use Fresh Broccoli: The key to a great broccoli salad is using fresh, crisp broccoli florets. Avoid overcooking the broccoli—this salad is best with raw, crunchy pieces.
2. Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness of the dressing. If you prefer a more tangy salad, use less honey or sugar.
3. Let it Chill: While you can eat this salad right after mixing it, allowing it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour helps the flavors blend beautifully and makes it even more refreshing.
4. Make Ahead: This salad is an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight—this will allow the flavors to develop even more.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Bowl: When tossing the salad, ensure that the dressing is evenly distributed by not overstuffing the bowl. Tossing gently and in batches if needed ensures every piece of broccoli is coated with the dressing.

Why You’ll Love Easy Broccoli Salad

• Fresh & Flavorful: The balance of crisp broccoli, sweet dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing makes each bite satisfying.
• Quick to Make: With minimal prep and no cooking required, this salad comes together quickly.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while the addition of nuts and seeds adds healthy fats and protein.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer a little sweetness, tang, or crunch, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Easy Broccoli Salad is a delicious and nutritious side dish that can complement nearly any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a barbecue, or as a simple side to your weeknight dinner, this refreshing salad will be a hit. It’s quick to prepare, packed with healthy ingredients, and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. With its balance of fresh flavors and crunchy textures, this broccoli salad is sure to become a family favorite!