Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Crisp: The broccoli provides a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
Flavorful: The tangy apple cider vinegar and sweet honey balance the richness of the mayonnaise.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time.
Versatile: This salad can be served at any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive BBQs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey

Directions

Prepare the vegetables: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Slice the red onion thinly and measure out the dried cranberries and sunflower seeds.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth and well combined.
Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill and serve: Cover with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)

Variations

Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or cheese to make the salad heartier.
Use Different Nuts: Substitute sunflower seeds with chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture.
Sweeten it Up: Add a handful of chopped apples or grapes for an extra burst of sweetness and color.
Make it Vegan: Use a vegan mayo alternative and substitute maple syrup for honey.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold and should not be reheated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

It’s best to use fresh broccoli for this salad, as frozen broccoli may become too soft when thawed.

How long should I let the salad chill?

For best results, chill the salad for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance, and it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, adding shredded cheddar or crumbled feta would be a great addition for more flavor and creaminess.

What can I substitute for the dried cranberries?

You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins, currants, or even chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients.

Can I make this salad without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey or substitute it with agave nectar or a sugar alternative if you prefer a vegan version.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the broccoli and dressing may become watery once thawed.

Can I use other seeds in place of sunflower seeds?

Yes, you can use pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds as a great alternative to sunflower seeds.

Conclusion

This Creamy Broccoli Salad is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that makes for the perfect side at any meal. With its bright colors, tangy dressing, and crunchy textures, it’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ, picnic, or family dinner. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection!