Need a fresh, tasty side for your next BBQ or get-together? This Broccoli Crunch Salad with Craisins is a winner! With crisp broccoli, crunchy bacon, and sweet dried cranberries, it’s got the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Tossed in a tangy dressing, this salad is bound to be a new family favorite for all your summer meals!
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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap "Jump to Recipe" at the top of the page.
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Why You'll Love This Salad
This Broccoli Crunch Salad is full of crunchy texture and sweet flavor. The bright green broccoli florets provide a nice contrast to the chewy dried cranberries, while the crumbled bacon adds just enough saltiness to balance out the sweetness of the Craisins.
The creamy dressing helps to bring all of the flavors together, making this salad an instant crowd pleaser. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and can be served cold or at room temperature, making this an ideal dish for any party or gathering. Be sure to also try this Greek Cucumber Salad and this Creamy Coleslaw with Poppyseed Dressing!
Classic Broccoli Salad Ingredients
*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Mayonnaise: This serves as the base for the broccoli salad dressing. You may substitute Greek yogurt, if desired.
- Sugar: The sugar helps to balance out the tartness of the apple cider vinegar in the dressing.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: The tangy flavor of this vinegar pairs perfectly with the sweet mayo and sugar. White wine vinegar may be substituted.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for creating crunchy texture. You will need 3-4 cups of broccoli florets. Make sure to thoroughly wash the broccoli before preparing the salad. Broccoli Slaw can be substituted.
- Craisins: Sweet dried cranberries give a pop of color, texture, and flavor to the salad.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds an additional layer of creamy flavor and texture to the dish.
- Bacon: Bacon pieces add a savory crunch to each bite. I use pre-made bacon pieces, but you can make your own by cooking 4 slices of crispy bacon and then crumbling into bite-sized pieces. You can also use bacon bits.
- Red Onion: Minced red onion provides extra tanginess and color. Feel free to substitute white, yellow, or green onions.
How to Make This Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
[Step 1] In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Set Aside.
[Step 2] Mince the onion and cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
[Step 3] Add the broccoli, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and red onion, and to the bowl.
[Step 4] Stir the ingredients together to disperse the dressing over the broccoli mixture. For best results, refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Helpful Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
How to Store Leftover Salad
If you have any leftover broccoli salad, store it in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Tips & Tricks
- For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
- You can also add in additional ingredients such as diced apples, slivered almonds, or cranberries to give the salad some extra flavor.
- To make this a main dish, add in cooked chicken or turkey breast pieces.
- If you prefer a less tangy flavor, reduce the amount of apple cider vinegar in the dressing.
- For a creamier salad, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe? I don't recommend using frozen broccoli. Fresh raw broccoli will work best in this recipe.
- How long does this salad last in the refrigerator? The salad will keep for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container.
- Can I use other add-ins for this salad? Sure! Feel free to substitute other ingredients such as diced red bell pepper, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or shredded carrots. You can also top the salad with a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese.
- Can broccoli salad be made ahead of time? Yes, it can! This fresh broccoli salad is a great make-ahead salad for meal prep, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck meal. The flavors will marinate better if you make the salad up to one day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Crunch Salad with Craisins is the best broccoli salad recipe and is a great side dish that's perfect for summertime gatherings. The combination of fresh broccoli, tangy dressing, and sweet dried cranberries creates an irresistible flavor profile that your guests will love.
Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Try this salad today and you'll be sure to have a hit on your hands.
More Great Salad Recipe
- Classic Macaroni Salad
- Italian Pasta Salad
- The Best Potato Salad
Broccoli Crunch Salad with Craisins
Ingredients
- ⅔ Cup Mayonnaise
- 1 ½ Tablespoon Sugar
- 3 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- 4 Cups Broccoli Florets
- ⅓ Cup Craisins
- ½ Cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- ¼ Cup Crumbled Bacon about 4 slices
- 2 Tablespoons Red Onion Minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Set Aside.
- Mince the onion and cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
- Add the broccoli, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and red onion to the bowl.
- Stir the ingredients together to disperse the dressing over the broccoli mixture. For best results, refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
