Transform your next meal with this irresistible "Broccoli Salad Made Easy" recipe—a quick and flavorful take on a classic dish that's perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad brings together tender, crunchy broccoli florets, savory crumbled bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and nutty sunflower seeds for a delightful texture medley. Tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing made with creamy mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of sugar, this salad hits all the right notes. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a short chill in the fridge, it’s an ideal make-ahead side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners. Packed with fresh ingredients and incredible flavor, this easy broccoli salad will quickly become a go-to favorite!
Wash and dry the broccoli, then chop it into bite-sized florets.
Finely dice the red onion.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.
Grate the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.
Calories |
2623 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 215.2 g | 276% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.1 g | 200% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 26.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 318 mg | 106% | |
| Sodium | 2272 mg | 99% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 116.0 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.8 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.1 g | ||
| Protein | 67.4 g | 135% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 715 mg | 55% | |
| Iron | 6.5 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 1293 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.