Easy Broccoli Salad

Easy Broccoli Salad – The Perfect Crunchy & Creamy Side Dish

Looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing side dish? This Easy Broccoli Salad is just what you need! Packed with crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and creamy cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing—it’s a guaranteed hit for any BBQ, picnic, or potluck.

The best part? No cooking required! Just mix, chill, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad

✔ No Cooking Needed – Just chop, mix, and chill!

✔ Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory.

✔ Customizable – Add nuts, extra cheese, or more dressing to suit your taste.

✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Flavors get even better as it sits, perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients & Their Role

For the Salad:

24 oz (2 bags) raw broccoli – The fresh, crunchy base.

½ cup chopped red onion – Adds a mild bite and sharpness.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Provides a creamy, rich flavor.

½ cup chopped cooked bacon (or bacon bits) – Adds a smoky, crispy contrast.

½ cup dried cranberries – Brings a sweet, chewy balance to the crunch.

¼ cup sunflower seeds – A nutty, toasty crunch for extra texture.

For the Dressing:

½ cup creamy coleslaw dressing (such as Kraft) – A slightly sweet and tangy base.

Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Enhances and balances flavors.

How to Make Easy Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces.

Dice the red onion and cook & chop the bacon (if not using store-bought bacon bits).

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, cheese, bacon, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Pour the coleslaw dressing over the salad.

Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

Give it a final stir before serving, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad

Let it Chill – The longer it sits, the better the flavors blend (2+ hours is ideal).

Make It Lighter – Swap coleslaw dressing for Greek yogurt or light mayo.

More Crunch? – Add chopped almonds, cashews, or pecans.

Love Garlic? – Stir in a clove of minced garlic for extra depth.

Extra Creamy? – Add more dressing before serving if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Broccoli Salad pairs well with:

Grilled Chicken, BBQ Ribs, or Burgers – A perfect side for smoky, grilled flavors.

Picnics, Potlucks, & Meal Prep – Great for summer gatherings or make-ahead meals.

Make It a Meal – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein!

Storage Tips

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead – Assemble in advance, but add the dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Broccoli Salad is the ultimate quick and delicious side dish, bursting with crunch, creaminess, and bold flavor.

Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a favorite!

Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, flavorful salad that everyone will love!