Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s bursting with texture, flavor, and color, this Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining crisp broccoli florets with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a luscious, creamy dressing, this salad strikes an irresistible balance of tangy, sweet, and savory—making it a delightful side or a light meal any time of year. It’s refreshingly simple to assemble but leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital part: crunchy broccoli offers a fresh base, cranberries bring a pop of sweetness, and pecans add that satisfying crunch. Together, these ingredients create a dish full of contrasts that work perfectly in harmony.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: The star of the dish providing crispness and vibrant green color.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds a chewy sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Bright orange color and mild sweetness increase visual appeal and texture.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Provides a zesty bite without overpowering the salad.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or sunflower seeds: Essential for crunch and rich nuttiness; toasting them brings extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds all the flavors together perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds a tangy undertone and lightens the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing a subtle acidity to brighten the salad.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dressing naturally and balances the vinegar.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors while keeping the balance just right.
How to Make Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the broccoli florets, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, finely chopped red onion, and chopped pecans into a large mixing bowl. This colorful combination forms the vibrant base of your salad with a wonderful variety of textures that make every bite interesting.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will coat every bite and marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld, creating a more harmonious and flavorful salad.
Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving
Just before serving, give the salad a good stir and taste it to adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes a little extra pepper or a pinch of salt can elevate it even further.
How to Serve Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or sunflower seeds on top right before serving. A few additional dried cranberries can add a playful pop of color and sweetness. Consider fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance freshness and appearance.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a casual sandwich, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s also an excellent addition to holiday spreads or potluck tables, standing out as a vibrant, healthy option amidst heavier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this broccoli cranberry salad in small mason jars for an adorable individual portion that’s perfect for picnics or lunchboxes. Alternatively, plating it atop a bed of mixed greens or stuffing it inside pita pockets offers a fun twist to enjoy this classic Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, but the crunch remains pleasantly intact, especially if you toast the nuts beforehand.
Freezing
Because of the fresh broccoli and creamy dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing would cause texture changes and separate the dressing upon thawing, resulting in a less enjoyable experience.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat it, as the fresh ingredients and creamy dressing shine brightest when chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are more tart and less sweet than dried ones, and they are quite firm. You can use them if you enjoy a tangier bite, but most people prefer dried cranberries for their chewy texture and sweetness that balance the salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt or sour cream with vegan alternatives made from plants, such as vegan mayo and coconut yogurt. Just be sure to choose products you enjoy the flavor of to keep the dressing delicious.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes, adding a bit of crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese can introduce a creamy, salty dimension that complements the other flavors. Add it sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the freshness of the broccoli and cranberries.
What variations can I try with nuts or seeds?
While pecans or sunflower seeds are suggested, walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds also work beautifully. Toast them lightly for extra crunch and nuttiness to enhance the salad’s texture.
How far in advance can I prepare the Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe?
It’s best made at least 30 minutes ahead to let the dressing soak in, but you can prepare it 1–2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Stir again before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this vibrant and flavorful Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe a place in your kitchen rotation. It’s such a cheerful, nutrient-packed dish that brings pure joy with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick side to complement your meal or a fresh addition to a potluck, this salad delivers. Happy cooking and savoring every crunchy, sweet, tangy mouthful!
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Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Broccoli Cranberry Salad is a vibrant and refreshing no-cook side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals. Combining crunchy fresh broccoli florets, sweet dried cranberries, shredded carrots, and a creamy tangy dressing made with mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, this salad is both flavorful and nutritious. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or sunflower seeds
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the broccoli florets, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, finely chopped red onion, and chopped pecans. Mix gently to combine all the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together thoroughly.
- Serve and Adjust: Before serving, stir the salad once again and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra flavor and crunch, lightly toast the pecans before adding to the salad.
- You can substitute dried cherries or raisins for the dried cranberries based on your preference.
- This salad is excellent for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
