This broccoli salad is anything but boring – loaded with bacon, craisins, sunflower seeds, and tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Even better the next day.
Let’s just go ahead and clear something up: this is not one of those sad, obligatory broccoli salads that shows up out of guilt and leaves untouched.
This one? People hover over this. People go back for “just a little more” three times. And then they think about it later.
It’s crunchy, salty, sweet, a little sharp from the red onion, and tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing that somehow makes everything pop without weighing it down. And the real game changer? The broccoli is chopped small – no giant, dry florets here. Every bite actually tastes like something.
Every single bite has its moment.
Also worth noting: it’s somehow even better the next day, when everything settles in and gets cozy together. This is fantastic with BBQ chicken.
Why This Broccoli Salad Works
- Finely chopped broccoli = better texture
No awkward, flavorless tree chunks. Every bite is balanced and scoopable. - Sweet + salty situation is dialed in
Bacon, craisins, sunflower seeds—this is not subtle, and that’s the point. - That vinaigrette though
Apple cider vinegar gives it a bright, tangy backbone that cuts through everything else. - Make-ahead magic
It doesn’t wilt into sadness. It gets better. Like lasagna. Or revenge.
Tips for Maximum Addiction
- Go small on the chop – this is the difference between “meh” and “what IS this??”
- Don’t skip the chill time – the flavor deepens in a big way
- Taste before serving – a tiny extra splash of vinegar can wake everything up
- Hold a little bacon back – sprinkle on top right before serving for texture
Variations
- Add shredded cheddar for a richer, potluck-style version
- Swap sunflower seeds for sliced almonds or pecans
- Use Greek yogurt for a creamier twist (still keep some vinegar for brightness)
- Add diced apple for extra crunch + sweetness
- Add kale for even more roughage + vitamin K
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It gets better by the hour, honestly.
This stuff disappears fast, so if you’re taking it to a football party I would suggest doubling the recipe. Or to any get-together for that reason.
Here’s the printable –
Broccoli Salad
This broccoli salad is anything but boring - loaded with bacon, craisins, sunflower seeds, and tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces (depending on preference)
- ½ red onion, chopped
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ⅓ cup craisins
- ¾ cup bacon, done crispy and chopped
- 1 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Combine broccoli through bacon in a large bowl.
- Whisk the mayo through vinegar in a small mixing bowl and pour over salad.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Recommended Products
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.
-
Wood Cutting Board Large Walnut 17x11 Inch Reversible with Handles and Juice Groove -
Hgjgwqh Ceramic Serving Tureen with Glass Lid, White Porcelain - AVLA 4 Pack Porcelain Dessert Bowls, 16 OZ Ceramic Ice Cream Bowls for Kitchen, Soup Serving Bowls for Cereal, Salad, Nuts, Oatmeal, Fruit, Prep, Side Dishes, Microwave and Dishwasher Safe
- Damascus Chef Knife 8 Inch Japanese Super Steel | Dixie Chik Cooks
Notes
*If I'm going to have leftovers, I always make extra dressing. Adding a little freshens the salad up after being in the fridge.
