Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

I love how the crunch of the fresh broccoli pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the dried cranberries.

One important tip: make sure to blanch the broccoli for just a minute to keep it vibrant and crisp.

I always make extra dressing because it’s just that good!

This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner.

How to Make Broccoli Crunch Salad

Ingredients List

• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads of broccoli)
• 1/2 cup crispy cooked bacon, chopped (about 6-8 slices)
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (raw or roasted)
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup diced green onions
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-step Process

Step 1

Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets.

Cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, then chop into small pieces.

Dice the green onions.

Step 2

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, raisins or dried cranberries, and diced green onions.

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4

Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes, or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5

Taste the Broccoli Crunch Salad and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious, flavorful, and crunchy broccoli salad!

Side Dishes for Broccoli Crunch Salad

Broccoli crunch salad is a versatile and delicious dish that can be paired with many different side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

Here are a few side dishes that you can serve with your broccoli crunch salad to create a well-rounded dining experience.

Grilled Chicken Breast

A simple, lean, protein-like grilled chicken breast complements the flavors in a broccoli crunch salad quite well.

It adds a healthy protein source to your meal, and the mild taste of the chicken allows the flavors of the salad to shine.

Quinoa Pilaf

If you’re looking for a nutritious grain to pair with your broccoli crunch salad, consider making a flavorful quinoa pilaf.

Quinoa is high in nutrients and has a delicious nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy dressing in a broccoli crunch salad.

You can easily customize the pilaf with your favorite herbs and spices.

How to Store Broccoli Crunch Salad

Proper storage of broccoli crunch salad is essential to maintain its freshness and taste.

Here are some methods to store your salad effectively: raw broccoli, cups of broccoli, single layer, broccoli florets, airtight container, ice bath, pot of water, and cold water.

Refrigerator

Once you have prepared your broccoli crunch salad, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator is best.

The salad should stay fresh for 2-3 days.

To maintain its crunch, avoid adding any dressing until you are ready to serve the salad.

When you are ready to enjoy your salad, take it out of the refrigerator and toss it with the dressing before serving.

By following these storage methods, you can keep your broccoli crunch salad fresh, crunchy, and delicious for an extended period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when preparing Broccoli Crunch Salad:

Overcooking the Broccoli

One common mistake to avoid when making a broccoli crunch salad is overcooking the broccoli.

Using raw or lightly blanched broccoli is important to maintain its crunch and vibrant color.

Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its color, which detracts from the quality of the salad.

Forgetting to Season with Salt

Another common mistake is forgetting to season your broccoli crunch salad with salt.

Proper seasoning can greatly enhance the dish’s flavor, so be sure to taste and adjust the salt level to your liking before serving.

Not Removing Excess Grease

If your recipe calls for bacon or other fatty ingredients, remove excess grease before adding them to the salad.

This will help prevent your salad from becoming soggy and unappetizing.