Easy Broccoli Salad – A Quick and Refreshing Side Dish

When you need a fast, flavorful side dish, this Easy Broccoli Salad is the perfect solution. Packed with crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and red onions, all tossed in a creamy tangy dressing, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that everyone will love.

It’s ideal for picnics, BBQs, family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as part of your weekly meal prep plan. The best part? This salad can be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy schedules and stress-free entertaining. After chilling, the flavors blend beautifully, creating a fresh and savory dish that works well with almost any main course.

If you enjoy light and delicious sides, try pairing this salad with our Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta,

Easy Broccoli Salad

Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Salad

Quick prep time – just 10 minutes to make!
Perfect for gatherings – potlucks, picnics, and parties.
Make-ahead friendly – even better the next day after chilling.
Versatile – customize with different add-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or cheese.

Ingredients– A Quick and Refreshing Side Dish

For the Salad:

24 oz raw broccoli florets (two 12-ounce bags)
½ cup red onion, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, chopped (or use bacon bits for convenience)

For the Dressing:

¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper

How to Make Easy Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the broccoli to soften slightly and the flavors to fully blend.

Pro Tip: This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it a perfect make-ahead side dish.

Optional Add-Ins

Sweetness: Dried cranberries or raisins.
Extra crunch: Sunflower seeds, pecans, or almonds.
Cheese variety: Try mozzarella pearls or Colby Jack cheese for a different flavor twist.
Healthier option: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Storage Instructions– A Quick and Refreshing Side Dish

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate when frozen.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Tools Needed

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Cutting board and sharp knife
Airtight container for storage

Final Thoughts– A Quick and Refreshing Side Dish

This Easy Broccoli Salad is not just quick to make, but it’s also loaded with fresh flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. The combination of crunchy broccoli, creamy dressing, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a side dish that stands out on any table. It’s perfect for BBQs, holiday dinners, or even as a light lunch on its own.

The best part? It can be made ahead of time, saving you stress on busy days. Serve it with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or pasta dishes, and watch it disappear fast!

For more quick and tasty recipes, explore our Lemon Cream Cake Recipe or discover other creative and healthy sides on Delish.

For more recipes follow me in Facebook , Pinterest !