Introduction
When it comes to quick, delicious, and family-friendly salads, this easy broccoli salad recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser. With its mix of fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, crunchy sliced almonds, sweet dried cranberries, and a simple yet flavorful four-ingredient dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re heading to a potluck, planning a family reunion, or simply looking for a tasty side dish for your next pool party, this broccoli salad will impress everyone. Best of all, it comes together in just 10-15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Why This Broccoli Salad is a Must-Try
This salad combines the best of both worlds: it’s nutritious and delicious. Broccoli, the star of the dish, is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthful addition to any meal. Paired with crispy bacon and crunchy almonds, it delivers a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberries. The dressing, a blend of mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and pepper, ties everything together with a creamy, tangy sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the dressing.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy vinegar.
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing a slight tartness that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
For the Salad:
- 1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets: Finely chopped into bite-size pieces; the main ingredient that provides crunch and nutrition.
- 8 slices crispy cooked bacon: Chopped; adds a salty, savory flavor that enhances the salad.
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor and a bit of color.
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds: Adds a nutty crunch that complements the other textures.
