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; 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 26, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey bacon and dried cranberries brings a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Great as a side for parties or as a light main course during lunch.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and enhanced with delicious toppings, it’s guilt-free indulgence.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it suitable for family meals or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this Classic Broccoli Salad easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking tray
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Baking tray: Ensures even cooking of the turkey bacon for that perfect crispiness.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for quick chopping of vegetables, saving you time in preparation.

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 15 to 18 minutes, or until crispy. Remove from the oven and transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled goat cheese. Once the turkey bacon is cool enough to handle, crumble it on top of the mixture.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and plain yogurt. Stir together until smooth.

Step 4: Toss to Combine

Pour the dressing over the broccoli salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Now your Classic Broccoli Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy this delicious recipe that everyone will love!

How to Serve Classic Broccoli Salad

Classic Broccoli Salad is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a healthy option for lunch, this salad fits right in. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
Brighten Up: This salad adds color and flavor to any buffet spread.

In a Wrap

Wrap It Up: Use the broccoli salad as a filling in a whole-grain wrap with turkey or hummus for an easy lunch.
Crunchy Snack: Enjoy it as a crunchy snack inside pita bread for added texture.

As Part of a Meal Prep

Easy Lunch: Pack it in containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Flavor Booster: It pairs well with quinoa or rice bowls, adding freshness and crunch.

At Picnics or Potlucks

Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at gatherings, making it an ideal dish to share.
Easy Transport: Prepare ahead of time and transport in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How to Perfect Classic Broccoli Salad

Creating the perfect Classic Broccoli Salad is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest broccoli florets available; they taste better and add crunch.
Crisp Bacon: Ensure your Turkey Bacon is crispy before adding it; this adds texture contrast.
Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch, like almonds or pumpkin seeds.
Adjust Dressing: Modify the mayonnaise and yogurt ratio to suit your creaminess preference.
Season Well: A pinch of salt and fresh pepper can enhance all the flavors throughout the salad.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Broccoli Salad

Classic Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Below are some excellent options that complement its flavor profile.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken adds protein and makes for a fulfilling meal.
Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins provide a nice contrast to the savory notes of the broccoli salad.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tartness of cranberries in your salad.
Cauliflower Rice: A healthy, low-carb option that brings additional nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Coleslaw: Another crunchy counterpart that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of your broccoli salad.
Garlic Bread: A deliciously buttery addition, perfect for sopping up any leftover dressing on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Broccoli Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking it too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for just crispy enough, about 15-18 minutes in a preheated oven.
Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old broccoli can ruin your salad. Always select fresh, vibrant florets for the best flavor and crunch.
Skipping the Dressing Mix: If you combine ingredients without mixing the dressing first, your salad may taste bland. Ensure you stir together the mayonnaise and yogurt before adding them.
Not Balancing Flavors: Too much of one ingredient can overpower others. Taste as you go to ensure a good balance of sweetness from cranberries and saltiness from bacon.
Serving Immediately After Assembly: The flavors blend better after resting. Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for an enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store Classic Broccoli Salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Classic Broccoli Salad

Duration: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture will change.
Recommendation: For best quality, enjoy fresh or refrigerated instead of freezing.

Reheating Classic Broccoli Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking tray and warm for 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Avoid overheating as it may make ingredients soggy.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through. This method helps maintain crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Classic Broccoli Salad healthier?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use low-fat versions of both mayo and yogurt to lower calories while keeping flavor intact.

What variations can I try for Classic Broccoli Salad?

Feel free to add different nuts like almonds or walnuts, swap cranberries with raisins, or include diced apples for extra sweetness!

Can I prepare Classic Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s great when made ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge for up to three days before serving.

What should I serve with Classic Broccoli Salad?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread at gatherings and picnics.

Final Thoughts

Classic Broccoli Salad is a delightful dish that combines crunchy veggies with savory turkey bacon and sweet cranberries. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether served at parties or enjoyed during meal prep, this salad is sure to become a favorite! Don’t hesitate to give it a try!

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