Broccoli salad is a classic dish, especially popular in the US for potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings. However, it can sometimes be a bit bland or even soggy. My recipe solves those problems! You’ll learn how to make a truly delicious and easy broccoli salad with a unique, crunchy twist that elevates it far beyond the ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad Recipe
This isn’t just any broccoli salad; it’s a game-changer!
Unique Twist: Toasted Sunflower Seeds. The key to this salad’s incredible flavor and texture is toasting the sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This simple step makes all the difference.
Enhanced Flavor. Toasting the sunflower seeds deepens their flavor, adding a rich, nutty dimension to the salad.
Satisfying Crunch. The toasted seeds provide a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy dressing and tender broccoli.
Quick and Easy. This salad comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
Family-Friendly. The balance of sweet and savory flavors appeals to a wide range of palates, even kids!
Perfect for Potlucks and BBQs. It’s the ideal side dish for any gathering, guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients Needed
- 8 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup bacon bits
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Broccoli: I prefer using fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Be sure to wash it thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can use frozen broccoli in a pinch, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. More information about cooking with broccoli can be found on Allrecipes.
Bacon: Thick-cut, applewood smoked bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. For vegetarian/vegan diets, consider using plant-based bacon bits or adding a dash of smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile.
Mayonnaise: I recommend using a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the richest flavor. Duke’s and Hellmann’s are popular choices in the US. For a lighter option, you can use light mayonnaise, but be aware that it might alter the taste and texture slightly. Vegan mayonnaise options are also available; look for brands like Follow Your Heart or Vegenaise.
Dried Cranberries: If you don’t have dried cranberries, you can substitute them with raisins, golden raisins, or chopped dried apricots.
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, try using shallots or green onions instead of red onion.
Sugar: You can use honey, maple syrup, or sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol in place of granulated sugar.
Sunflower Seeds: Other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds can be used in place of sunflower seeds. Toast them for the best flavor!
How to Make Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Preparing the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. The dressing should be tangy and sweet, with a pleasant aroma. Set the dressing aside.
Step 2: Toasting the Sunflower Seeds
Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently. This should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are lightly golden and fragrant. The toasting process enhances their natural flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch. Let them cool completely before adding them to the salad.
Step 3: Combining the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, toasted sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Make sure the broccoli is as dry as possible before mixing to prevent a watery salad. The vibrant colors and varying textures of the ingredients create an inviting visual appeal.
Step 4: Chilling the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and delicious salad. For the best results, chill for several hours or even overnight.
Keeping Broccoli Salad Fresh and Delicious
To keep your broccoli salad from getting watery, ensure the broccoli is thoroughly dry after washing. A salad spinner works wonders! If you’re making the salad ahead of time, consider adding the dressing just before serving. Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
- Wash your broccoli ahead of time if possible; this helps ensure it drains well.
- Allow time for the recipe to chill in the fridge. This gives the broccoli a chance to soak in some of the dressing, resulting in an even more flavorful salad!
- Swap out the seeds for any kind of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
- If you’d like, you can also add some broccoli slaw to the salad.
- Dry broccoli very well, so moisture doesn’t water down the dressing.
- Reserve some crisp bacon for garnish if desired and add just before serving.
- Store-bought coleslaw dressing can replace the homemade dressing if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the broccoli thoroughly, leading to a watery salad.
- Overcooking the bacon, resulting in hard, brittle pieces.
- Adding too much dressing, making the salad overly sweet or tangy.
- Skipping the chilling time, preventing the flavors from melding.
- Not toasting the sunflower seeds, missing out on the enhanced flavor and texture.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
- Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or pulled pork.
- Serve as a side dish at potlucks, picnics, and BBQs.
- Garnish with extra bacon bits or toasted sunflower seeds.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Broccoli salad will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, store it in an airtight container.
You can make broccoli salad ahead of time, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy. You can prepare the ingredients (chop broccoli, dice onion, cook bacon) up to 2 days in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator.
Freezing broccoli salad is not recommended. The mayonnaise-based dressing will separate and become watery when thawed, and the broccoli will lose its crisp texture.
Conclusion
This easy broccoli salad with toasted sunflower seeds is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Even beginner cooks can make this recipe successfully. Feel free to add other veggies or nuts to customize the recipe to your liking. Print the recipe, share it with friends, or explore other delicious salad recipes on our site!
If you love potlucks, consider bringing the dish alongside the best macaroni salad recipe.
Are you looking for something even lighter? You might enjoy a crispy air fryer asparagus as a side! More side dish ideas can be found at Food Network.
FAQ
How long does broccoli salad last?
Broccoli salad typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Can you make broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can, but add the dressing just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
What can I add to broccoli salad to customize it?
You can add other veggies like cauliflower or celery, cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, or different types of nuts.
How do you keep broccoli salad from getting watery?
The key is to dry the broccoli very well after washing it and don’t add the dressing until just before serving.
Is broccoli salad healthy, and how can I make it healthier?
Yes, it’s a good source of vitamins and fiber. To make it healthier, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option, and reduce the amount of sugar.
How to adjust this salad for different dietary needs (keto, paleo, vegan)?
For keto: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol and full-fat mayonnaise. For paleo: Use paleo-friendly mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of sugar. For vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based bacon bits.
What type of bacon is best for broccoli salad?
Crispy cooked bacon cut into bits is best. You can use any kind you like, or use plant-based bacon for vegetarians.
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Best Broccoli Salad Recipe with Toasted Sunflower Seeds
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Set the dressing aside.
- Toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Let them cool completely before adding them to the salad.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, toasted sunflower seeds, and bacon bits. Make sure the broccoli is as dry as possible before mixing to prevent a watery salad.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. For the best results, chill for several hours or even overnight.
Notes
Lia Monet is a food blogger, recipe developer, and the founder of EasyAsMeals, a food blog focused on easy recipes, quick dinners, and everyday home cooking. She creates tested, family-friendly recipes using simple ingredients to help busy families cook affordable and delicious meals at home.
