Best Broccoli Salad Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Perfect for Summer

A Family Favorite with Timeless Flavor

When summer rolls around and the grills start sizzling, one dish always earns a top spot on my picnic table—broccoli salad. This humble yet hearty side dish has deep roots in American cookouts and family gatherings. My take on this timeless recipe is inspired by summers spent in my grandmother’s backyard in upstate New York, where she whipped up the most unforgettable broccoli salad with little more than fresh produce, a creamy dressing, and a handful of pantry staples.

This version honors her original, with a few modern twists—cheese for richness, honey for balance, and a dressing that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this is the best broccoli salad recipe you’ll ever need.

Why This is the Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

What sets this broccoli salad apart from countless others? It’s the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, sweet and savory. Here are just a few reasons it stands out:

• No cooking required: It’s a raw salad that stays crisp and fresh.
• Customizable: Add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit can be swapped easily.
• Make-ahead magic: It tastes even better the next day.
• Vegetarian friendly: It’s hearty without needing meat.
• Seasonal: Ideal for summer, but welcome on any table year-round.

Ingredients

Salad Base

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup grated carrot (optional for color and crunch)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins for a traditional sweet touch)
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds

Creamy Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or ½ cup mayo + ½ cup Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli

Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli. Cut the florets into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure every bite is manageable and coated well with dressing.

2. Chop the Add-ins

Dice your red onion, shred the cheddar cheese, and grate the carrot if using. Measure out the dried fruit and seeds.

3. Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

4. Toss Everything Together

In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli, cheese, onion, carrot, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until well coated.

5. Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly.

Flavor Variations

Add a Smoky Touch

Add crumbled smoked cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the dressing.

Make it a Full Meal

Mix in chickpeas or cooked quinoa for added protein.

Brighten It Up

Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for a fresh zing.

Go Gluten-Free

This salad is naturally gluten-free—just be sure to check your mayo and other packaged ingredients.

Nutritional Highlights

This salad is rich in:

• Fiber: From raw broccoli and seeds.
• Healthy fats: From the dressing and seeds.
• Calcium and protein: From the cheddar cheese.
• Antioxidants: Thanks to red onion, dried cranberries, and broccoli.

Estimated per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 7g
• Carbs: 14g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

How to Make It Ahead

This salad is an ideal make-ahead dish. Simply prepare all the ingredients, toss them with the dressing, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The flavor improves as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. The broccoli will soften over time, but the crunch from seeds and the richness of the cheese will still hold up beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a versatile companion to a wide range of main dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Grilled meats: Chicken, steak, or pork chops
• Burgers: Beef, turkey, or veggie
• Sandwiches: Especially those with a smoky or tangy flavor
• On its own: As a light lunch or part of a summer spread

Serve it chilled, directly from the fridge, for the best texture and taste.

Expert Tips for Best Results

1. Cut broccoli small: Ensures it gets fully coated in dressing and is easier to eat.
2. Soak red onion: For a milder taste, soak chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes.
3. Use quality cheese: A sharp, well-aged cheddar adds more flavor.
4. Balance sweetness: If using sweet add-ins like cranberries, reduce honey slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I blanch the broccoli?

Yes, blanching broccoli for 30 seconds in boiling water followed by an ice bath can slightly soften it without losing the crunch. It’s optional but preferred by those who find raw broccoli too tough.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version or try vegan mayo for a plant-based option. A mix of sour cream and yogurt also works well.

How long does broccoli salad last in the fridge?

Broccoli salad will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. After that, the dressing may begin to separate and the broccoli can become soggy.

Is broccoli salad healthy?

Yes, especially when made with Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayo. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and healthy fats. Just be mindful of portion sizes due to the richness of the dressing.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegan mayo and cheese alternatives, and skip the honey or use maple syrup. It’s just as flavorful and satisfying.

Should I peel the broccoli stems?

If you’re using stems, peeling them can make them more tender. They’re a great addition for extra crunch and help reduce waste.

Can I freeze broccoli salad?

Freezing is not recommended. The texture of the broccoli and the dressing will change significantly upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve it cold as a side or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch. If you’re craving a warm alternative, try this creamy chicken potato broccoli casserole for a comfort food version using similar ingredients.

Looking for more salad inspiration? Balance this dish with the vibrant superfood berry salad with lemon dressing, perfect for summer wellness goals.

Or explore Asian-inspired freshness in the spring roll salad with peanut sauce—loaded with crisp veggies and bold flavors.

Love creamy textures and summer vegetables? This caprese pasta salad with creamy pesto makes an irresistible partner for your broccoli salad at any BBQ spread.

For a sweet and savory veggie-forward side, try roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey to round out your meal.

Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

This creamy broccoli salad is a perfect summer side dish, packed with sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy seeds, and a tangy-sweet dressing.

Salad Base

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup red onion (finely diced)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (or slivered almonds)

Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or ½ mayo, ½ Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

1. Wash and dry broccoli. Chop into small bite-sized pieces.

2. In a large bowl, mix broccoli, cheese, red onion, carrot, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss to coat evenly.

5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

This salad is perfect for making ahead. Add protein like chickpeas or hard-boiled eggs for a complete meal.

Lunch

American

broccoli salad, creamy salad, Vegetarian

Conclusion

This best broccoli salad recipe isn’t just another side dish—it’s a celebration of summer’s freshest flavors. Its crunchy texture, creamy dressing, and bold pops of sweetness and tang make it a standout in any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on your porch with a lemonade or bringing it to a crowded cookout, this broccoli salad will steal the show.

What makes this dish truly exceptional is how effortlessly it fits into any lifestyle. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. From my grandmother’s garden to your modern-day kitchen, this salad bridges generations with every bite.