Go Back
the-best-broccoli-salad_feature

The Ultimate Broccoli Salad Recipe: Your New Go-To Side Dish

This classic broccoli salad combines creamy dressing with crunchy ingredients for a versatile side dish that's perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It features blanched broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, turkey ham, and a sweet-savory dressing that intensifies when made ahead.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads)
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
  • 1/2 cup cooked turkey ham, diced
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the broccoli by washing it thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli quickly by boiling for 1 minute then immediately transferring to ice water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli florets with diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and cooked turkey ham. Add shredded carrots if using.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to overmix to preserve texture.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably 4-6 hours) to allow flavors to meld together.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds or dried cranberries if desired.

Notes

The salad improves with resting time - make it 4-6 hours ahead for best flavor. Blanching broccoli removes bitterness while maintaining crunch. For lighter dressing, substitute half mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.