If you are looking for a refreshingly crunchy, slightly sweet, and delightfully creamy dish, this Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It’s a vibrant combination of fresh broccoli florets tossed with a luscious, tangy dressing, balanced perfectly by the sweetness of dried cranberries and the satisfying crunch of sunflower seeds. This salad isn’t just a colorful side dish; it’s a wholesome, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that you can whip up in just 15 minutes and enjoy any time you want a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the secret to making this salad truly shine. Each item is chosen to bring a unique contrast in taste and texture, from the crunchy broccoli to the sweet cranberries and savory cheese. These essentials work beautifully together to create the perfect balance in the Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Choose crisp, bright green broccoli for that satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sharpness that complements the creaminess of the dressing.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Give the salad a juicy pop of sweetness that brightens every bite.
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds): These provide a nutty crunch that elevates the texture profile.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheddar): A creamy, savory element that enhances the salad’s richness.
- 1/2 cup savory bits (optional): Perfect for adding an extra layer of crunch and flavor, if you’d like.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo): The base of your creamy dressing, giving it that luscious coating and tang.
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey): Sweetens the dressing naturally without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to finish it off and bring all the flavors together.
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This creates the creamy dressing that will bring all the flavors together. The key here is to get a smooth and well-emulsified dressing—it should be tangy with a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the fresh broccoli.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss the chopped broccoli florets, finely diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and savory bits if you’re using them. This mixture alone is a delightful combination of colors and textures that promise a festive eating experience.
Step 3: Toss to Coat
Pour your freshly mixed creamy dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything until each piece is nicely coated. This ensures every bite has that creamy tang mingled with the crunchy and sweet components—an absolute pleasure for your taste buds.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dressing to soak into the broccoli and other ingredients, softening the broccoli slightly while melding all the delicious flavors into one harmonious dish.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair, consider sprinkling a few whole sunflower seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley over the top just before serving. These garnishes will lend a fresh burst of color and crunch that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
Side Dishes
This broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked fish, or even as a fresh side for your backyard barbecue. Its crunchy, creamy texture creates a lovely contrast to smoky, savory mains and can brighten up any meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in colorful, clear glass bowls so the vibrant green broccoli and ruby red cranberries pop visually. For a fun twist, serve it in small mason jars for picnics or potlucks. You can also scoop it onto toasted baguette slices for a brunch appetizer that your guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This broccoli salad is perfect for making ahead and storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a wonderful option for meal prep or quick snacks. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because of its fresh, crunchy nature and creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended for this recipe. Freezing would alter the texture of the broccoli and dressing, leaving you with a less appealing salad upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer a slightly warmed version, allow it to sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving rather than using a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Fresh broccoli works best to maintain that crisp texture fundamental to the salad, but if frozen broccoli is all you have, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture making the salad soggy.
Is there a vegan version of this Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply swap the mayonnaise for vegan mayo and use vegan cheddar cheese or omit the cheese altogether. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding chopped bell peppers, cooked bacon bits, or even diced apples for additional sweetness and texture. This salad is wonderfully flexible.
How long should I chill the salad?
Chilling for at least 20 to 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to marry and the broccoli to soften slightly, but if you’re short on time, even 10 minutes in the fridge will help.
What is the best way to store leftover dressing?
If you have extra dressing, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a quick whisk before adding it to the salad next time.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is truly a joy to make and eat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or just when you want a side that’s both healthy and indulgent. Once you try this combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, and rich creamy dressing, it’s hard not to make it again and again. Give it a shot, and I promise it will bring a bright, fresh twist to your meal rotation!
Print
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing combines fresh broccoli florets with crunchy sunflower seeds, sweet cranberries, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish, this salad is simple to prepare in just 15 minutes and is ideal for gatherings or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheddar)
- 1/2 cup savory bits (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this creamy dressing aside.
- Make the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, finely diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and savory bits if using. Mix these ingredients gently to distribute them evenly.
- Toss to Coat: Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure that all the salad ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute sunflower seeds with chopped almonds or your favorite nuts for a different crunch and flavor.
- Use vegan mayonnaise and vegan cheddar cheese to make this salad suitable for a vegan diet.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your taste preferences.
- Including savory bits is optional but adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
