Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure you're using a dairy-free mayonnaise. Everything else in the recipe is naturally dairy-free, making this an easy adaptation for those with dairy sensitivities.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?

I don't recommend frozen broccoli for this particular recipe. Frozen broccoli becomes quite soft when thawed and won't provide the crisp texture that makes this salad special. Fresh broccoli is definitely the way to go here.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, many people find the flavor improves after the ingredients have had time to mingle in the refrigerator. If making ahead, you might want to add the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.

Can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the honey to 1-2 tablespoons instead of 3, or use a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener. The sweetness helps balance the tangy vinegar and savory bacon, but you can adjust to your taste preferences.

Crispy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Name: Crispy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups tiny chopped broccoli florets (from about 3 broccoli crowns); 8 oz. bacon (8 strips); 3/4 cup slivered almonds; 3/4 cup dried cranberries (such as cherry juice infused); 1/3 cup chopped red onion; 1 cup mayonnaise*; 3 Tbsp honey**; 2 1/2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar***; Salt to taste

This Crispy Broccoli Salad is a game-changer for your meal rotation – packed with crunchy broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and toasted almonds all tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes even broccoli skeptics come back for seconds. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish for busy weeknight dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of crispy, salty bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy broccoli creates an incredible flavor profile that makes this salad irresistible.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad actually gets better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or preparing before a gathering.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even people who claim they don’t like broccoli will devour this salad! The creamy dressing and flavorful mix-ins transform simple broccoli into something special.
Versatile: Works beautifully as a side dish for almost any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Broccoli florets: The star of the show, providing crunch and nutrition. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture and to help absorb the dressing.
Bacon: Adds that irresistible savory crunch that elevates the entire dish. Everything is better with bacon, and this salad is proof!
Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy dressing, bringing all the flavors together.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the tang of the vinegar and the saltiness of the bacon.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity to cut through the richness of the mayo and bacon.
Slivered almonds: Brings another layer of crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them amplifies their flavor tremendously.
Dried cranberries: Adds chewy texture and bursts of sweetness that complement the savory elements perfectly.
Red onion: Provides a sharp, zingy contrast to the creamy dressing and sweet components.
Salt: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Boost

Add diced grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to turn this side dish into a complete meal.

Cheese Please

Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta for an extra layer of flavor.

Lighter Version

Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter dressing with added protein.

Nut Alternatives

Try toasted sunflower seeds, pepitas, or chopped walnuts instead of almonds for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Toast the Almonds

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them for 6-8 minutes, giving them a toss halfway through. They’re done when they’re lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and arrange the bacon strips in a single layer. Bake for 12-18 minutes until cooked through. The bacon will continue to crisp as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit underdone. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Season with salt to taste – remember the bacon will add saltiness to the finished salad, so go easy at first.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, bacon pieces, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and chopped red onion. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

You can serve the salad immediately, but if time allows, let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This gives the flavors time to meld together and the broccoli to slightly soften in the dressing.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Broccoli Size Matters: Cut the broccoli into very small florets – they’ll absorb more flavor and be easier to eat.
Toast, Don’t Burn: Keep a close eye on the almonds while toasting. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds.
Bacon Technique: For extra-crispy bacon, place it on a wire rack set on the baking sheet so the fat drips away as it cooks.
Make-Ahead Strategy: You can prepare all the components a day ahead and assemble just before serving. Keep the dressing separate and toss together about 30 minutes before mealtime.
Cutting Broccoli: Don’t waste those broccoli stems! Peel the tough outer layer and dice the inside to add to your salad for extra crunch and nutrition.

How to Serve

As a Side Dish

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, pulled pork, or any summer barbecue fare. It’s also substantial enough to stand alongside lighter main dishes like grilled fish or a simple roast chicken.

For Potlucks and Picnics

Transport the salad in a sealed container and give it a quick toss before serving. Since there’s no lettuce to wilt, it holds up beautifully for several hours at room temperature.

Holiday Meals

This bright, fresh salad makes a wonderful addition to holiday spreads, providing a nice contrast to heavier, traditional dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise-based dressing and the texture of the fresh broccoli. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Reheating

No reheating necessary! Simply remove from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off, give it a good stir, and enjoy.

FAQs

Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure you’re using a dairy-free mayonnaise. Everything else in the recipe is naturally dairy-free, making this an easy adaptation for those with dairy sensitivities.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?

I don’t recommend frozen broccoli for this particular recipe. Frozen broccoli becomes quite soft when thawed and won’t provide the crisp texture that makes this salad special. Fresh broccoli is definitely the way to go here.
How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, many people find the flavor improves after the ingredients have had time to mingle in the refrigerator. If making ahead, you might want to add the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the honey to 1-2 tablespoons instead of 3, or use a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener. The sweetness helps balance the tangy vinegar and savory bacon, but you can adjust to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. It strikes that perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. The combination of textures and flavors creates a salad that even broccoli skeptics will love. Whether you’re bringing it to a gathering or adding it to your weeknight dinner rotation, I’m confident this will become one of your go-to recipes. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!