Crisp, colorful, and bursting with bold flavors, this Bodacious Broccoli Salad is the ultimate side dish for any occasion! Featuring tender broccoli florets lightly blanched for a perfect crunch, shredded carrots, sweet dried cranberries, and savory crumbled bacon, this salad strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory. Toasted sunflower seeds add a nutty depth, while sharp cheddar and finely diced red onion provide richness and zing. It's all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep time, this broccoli salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Serve it as a vibrant side or a light, wholesome meal, and watch it disappear in no time!
Prepare the broccoli by cutting the florets into small, bite-sized pieces. If the stems are tender, peel and chop them into small pieces as well.
Blanch the broccoli by boiling for 60 seconds, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, diced red onion, crumbled bacon, and cheddar cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Give the salad one final toss before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or light meal!
Serving size | 1137.4 grams (1137.4g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 3326 |
Total Fat 259.10g | 332% |
Saturated Fat 54.00g | 270% |
Cholesterol 396mg | 132% |
Sodium 4080mg | 177% |
Total Carbohydrate 166.60g | 61% |
Dietary Fiber 30.50g | 109% |
Total Sugars 80.40g | |
Protein 100.20g | 200% |
Vitamin D 24IU | 120% |
Calcium 1122mg | 86% |
Iron 10mg | 54% |
Potassium 1676mg | 36% |
Source of Calories