Description

This Bodacious Broccoli Salad is the perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory flavors! Made with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing, this dish is ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s easy to make, full of nutrients, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
8 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ red onion, finely chopped
⅓ cup sunflower seeds (optional)
½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

For the Dressing:

⅔ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tbsp sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional for extra tang)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
Finely dice the red onion and shred the cheddar cheese.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, cheese, red onion, sunflower seeds, and cranberries.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

For a vegetarian version, swap bacon for smoked almonds or coconut bacon.
If you prefer softer broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse under cold water.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for bacon)
Category: Side Dish, Salad
Method: No-Cook (except for bacon)
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Bodacious Broccoli Salad, creamy broccoli salad, easy broccoli salad recipe, broccoli bacon salad, healthy side dish