Classic Broccoli Salad

Name: Classic Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices Turkey Bacon; 5 cups broccoli florets (from 1 large head of broccoli); ⅓ cup diced red onion; ½ cup dried unsweetened cranberries; ½ cup sunflower seeds; ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese; ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup plain yogurt

Published: June 30, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Turkey Bacon, cranberries, and goat cheese adds layers of flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for gatherings or as a standalone meal prep option throughout the week.
Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from the broccoli and healthy fats from sunflower seeds, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile ensures that even those who aren’t fans of traditional salads will love it.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking tray
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for dressing
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Baking tray: Essential for cooking the Turkey Bacon evenly while allowing excess fat to drain away.
Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
Knife and cutting board: Important for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 slices Turkey Bacon
5 cups broccoli florets (from 1 large head of broccoli)
⅓ cup diced red onion
½ cup dried unsweetened cranberries
½ cup sunflower seeds
¼ cup crumbled goat cheese

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain yogurt

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Classic Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Add the Turkey Bacon slices to a parchment-lined baking tray. Cook for about 15 to 18 minutes or until crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and place on a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled goat cheese. When the Turkey Bacon has cooled enough to handle, crumble it on top of the other ingredients.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and plain yogurt. Stir well until fully mixed. This creamy dressing will tie all your flavors together.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over your broccoli salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated in dressing. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Broccoli Salad

Classic Broccoli Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as part of your meal prep, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

Perfectly complements grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Adds a refreshing crunch to any meal.

In a Wrap

Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad for a fresh, low-carb option.
Great for on-the-go lunches or picnics!

As a Snack

Serve as a healthy snack during the day.
Keep it in the fridge for quick access when hunger strikes.

At Potlucks

A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to transport.
Impress friends with this delicious and colorful salad.

How to Perfect Classic Broccoli Salad

To ensure your Classic Broccoli Salad is as tasty as possible, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crispy turkey bacon make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Adjust the Dressing: You can add more yogurt or mayonnaise based on your taste preference.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for at least an hour allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Swap Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with nuts or different cheeses if you want variety.
Make Ahead: This salad stays fresh for several days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Broccoli Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Broccoli Salad can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken adds protein and pairs well with the salad’s crunch.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain dish that complements the flavors of broccoli salad.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a delightful contrast to the freshness of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies enhances your plate visually and nutritionally.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide comfort food vibes alongside a fresh salad.
Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruit skewers balance the savory elements of the meal wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Broccoli Salad, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your broccoli and other ingredients. Fresh produce ensures the best flavor and texture in your salad.
Overcooking the turkey bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon too long can make it tough. Aim for a crispy texture but keep an eye on it while baking.
Neglecting to chop ingredients evenly: Unevenly chopped vegetables can lead to inconsistent bites. Chop your broccoli and other ingredients into similar sizes for uniformity.
Forgetting about seasoning: While the dressing adds flavor, don’t forget to season your salad lightly with salt and pepper. This enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Not chilling before serving: Serving right after mixing can make the salad taste bland. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days.
Ensure all ingredients are cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Classic Broccoli Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container.
Use within one month for best quality, but expect changes in texture upon thawing.

Reheating Classic Broccoli Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until heated through.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Classic Broccoli Salad?

You can easily customize this salad by adding different nuts or seeds, like almonds or pumpkin seeds. You might also consider using different cheeses or adding fruits like apples or grapes for extra sweetness.

Can I make Classic Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance; just remember to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a healthier alternative for the dressing?

Absolutely! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a vinaigrette dressing instead of creamy dressings for a lighter option.

What else can I add to my Classic Broccoli Salad?

Feel free to add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein. Chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots also work well and add more color and crunch.

What pairs well with Classic Broccoli Salad?

This salad complements grilled meats beautifully, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues or picnics. It also works great alongside sandwiches or wraps.

Final Thoughts

Classic Broccoli Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its blend of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at parties or a satisfying addition to your weekly meal prep. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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