This Broccoli Salad with Cranberries Always Disappears First

This Broccoli Salad with Cranberries is crisp, creamy and perfectly balanced, combining fresh broccoli with salty bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet cranberries in a tangy sweet dressing. Every bite has that mix of crunch and creaminess that makes it hard to stop going back for more.

This easy broccoli salad recipe comes together quickly and is one of those classic recipes that always disappears fast. It's a perfect side dish for summer picnics, holiday tables or any gathering where you need something easy that everyone will love.

If you enjoy simple sides like our Keto Broccoli Salad or Potato Salad without Eggs, this is another great addition to your rotation.

Ingredients

This broccoli cranberry salad uses simple ingredients that come together into a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful dish.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: The base of the salad, adding crisp texture and freshness.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy dressing that coats everything evenly.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds a light tang and extra creaminess to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy dressing that balances the sweetness.
• Bacon: Brings salty, savory notes and a satisfying crunch.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp flavor and a creamy element throughout.
• Dried Cranberries: Brings sweetness that contrasts the savory ingredients.
• Sunflower Seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the tangy sweet dressing with just a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

To make this recipe easier, you'll need a large bowl and measuring cups and spoons.

Variations

• Onion: Add sharp red onion for extra bite and depth.
• Seeds: Use pumpkin seeds or crunchy almonds for a different texture.
• Sweetness: Swap sugar for maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Cranberries

This creamy broccoli salad comes together with just a quick mix-it really is that simple.

In a large serving bowl, add mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or all mayo), apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt, and mix well. 

Then add in broccoli, bacon, cheese cubes, dried cranberries and sunflower seeds, and toss to combine.

Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Hint: Cut broccoli into smaller, even pieces so the dressing coats evenly.

Recipe Tips

• Crispy Bacon: Make sure the bacon is golden brown and crisp for the best texture.
• Balance the Flavor: Adjust the sugar and vinegar to get the right sweet-tangy balance.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit so the flavors can come together.

For another easy, crowd-pleasing side, our Cold Tuna Pasta Salad pairs well as part of a larger spread.

More Side Dishes

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Make Ahead: Prepare ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve. It tastes better after sitting as the flavors have time to develop.

Serving Suggestions

• Mains: Chicken Thighs, Slow Cooker Brisket, BBQ Pulled Pork, Brisket Sliders and Pulled Pork Sliders.
• Sides: Potato Salad without Eggs, Coleslaw, Pesto Pasta Salad or Baked Mac and Cheese.

Broccoli and Cranberry Salad Recipe FAQs

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