Introduction & Inspiration
Whenever I’m craving something crunchy, colorful, and packed with flavor, I immediately think of this Broccoli Salad.
It’s a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, sweet and savory bites, creamy dressing, and a little bit of everything good.
Whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a holiday side dish, or just a simple meal prep salad for the week, this recipe always hits the spot.
Nostalgic Appeal
Broccoli salads were a staple at every family picnic and holiday potluck when I was growing up.
There was always that one big bowl filled with bright green broccoli, crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruit, and a creamy dressing that tied it all together.
Every time I make this updated version, it instantly transports me back to those carefree, laughter-filled days around the table.
Homemade Focus
What makes this Broccoli Salad truly special is how fresh and homemade every element feels.
From quickly blanching the broccoli to crafting a zesty citrus poppyseed dressing from scratch, each step adds a little extra love and flavor.
Making it yourself means it’s fresher, brighter, and just so much more satisfying than anything you could buy pre-made.
Flavor Goal
My flavor goal with this salad was to create something that hits all the notes: crisp, creamy, tangy, savory, and just a touch sweet.
The crunchy almonds and sunflower seeds pair perfectly with the tender-crisp broccoli, while the cranberries add a burst of sweetness.
The smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese bring richness, and the citrusy dressing ties everything together with a bright, poppyseed-studded finish.
Ingredient Insights
Fresh broccoli is the undeniable star here, bringing a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty richness that balances the salad’s sweet notes.
Finely chopped red onion offers a gentle sharpness once soaked to mellow it out.
Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and chewiness that makes every bite exciting.
Sliced almonds and roasted sunflower seeds provide extra crunch and nutty depth.
Sharp cheddar cheese brings a creamy, salty element that rounds out all the flavors.
The homemade citrus poppyseed dressing infuses the salad with brightness, creaminess, and just the right hint of tang.
Essential Equipment
A large pot and a bowl filled with ice water are needed for blanching the broccoli perfectly.
A small bowl and whisk are perfect for blending the creamy poppyseed dressing.
Sharp knives and a cutting board make prepping the veggies quick and easy.
A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing everything together without crushing the delicate ingredients.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
For the Salad:
- 4½ cups fresh broccoli, cut into small florets (about 2 heads)
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- â…” cup dried cranberries (reduced sugar optional)
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- â…“ cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into very small cubes (or shredded)
For the Creamy Citrus Poppyseed Dressing:
- â…” cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 small lemon
- Zest of ½ orange
- 1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ tablespoon poppy seeds
- Pinch of black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Chop the broccoli into very small, bite-sized florets.
Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes to create an ice bath.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
Add the broccoli to the boiling water and boil for just 20 seconds.
Immediately drain and plunge the broccoli into the ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve the bright green color.
After a few minutes, drain the broccoli thoroughly and lay it out on paper towels to dry completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Red Onion
Place the finely chopped red onion in a small bowl of cold water.
Let it soak for 5 minutes to mellow the sharp bite, then drain well.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and a pinch of black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Set the dressing aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled and dried broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, drained red onion, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, roasted sunflower seeds, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Pour about half of the citrus poppyseed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Add more dressing to taste, depending on how creamy you like it.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Toss once more before serving.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh:
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The flavors continue to develop, and the salad stays delicious, although it will soften slightly over time.
Make Ahead:
You can blanch the broccoli, cook the bacon, and prepare the dressing a day in advance.
Keep each component separate until ready to assemble for the freshest results.
Warm Up:
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
No reheating needed—just give it a fresh toss before serving.
Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Why is my broccoli soggy?
Overcooking the broccoli or not draining it properly can make it soggy.
Blanch for just 20 seconds and drain thoroughly to keep it crisp.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Of course, but the homemade citrus poppyseed dressing really brings a fresh, bright flavor that’s hard to beat.
What if I don’t eat bacon?
You can easily swap in crispy chickpeas, toasted nuts, or even roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Definitely! Chopped dried apricots or golden raisins would also work beautifully.
Tips and Variations
- Add a handful of cooked quinoa for an extra boost of protein.
- Sprinkle in some pumpkin seeds for even more crunch.
- Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Try using a blend of green and purple broccoli for extra color.
- Drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the top just before serving for a bright finish.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon.
- Makes a great addition to a lunch spread alongside sandwiches and wraps.
Nutritional Information
This Broccoli Salad is packed with fiber, antioxidants, healthy fats, and a balance of savory and sweet flavors.
The almonds, sunflower seeds, and cheddar cheese bring protein and richness, while the broccoli and citrus dressing keep it light and refreshing.
Broccoli Salad Recipe
Description
Make this Broccoli Salad with a creamy citrus poppyseed dressing! Crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy seeds come together for a vibrant, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
-
4½ cups fresh broccoli, cut into small florets (about 2 heads)
-
5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
-
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
-
â…” cup dried cranberries (reduced sugar optional)
-
½ cup sliced almonds
-
â…“ cup roasted sunflower seeds
-
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into very small cubes (or shredded)
For the Creamy Citrus Poppyseed Dressing:
-
â…” cup mayonnaise
-
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
Zest of 1 small lemon
-
Zest of ½ orange
-
1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
-
½ tablespoon poppy seeds
-
Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Chop the broccoli into very small, bite-sized florets.
Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes to create an ice bath.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
Add the broccoli to the boiling water and boil for just 20 seconds.
Immediately drain and plunge the broccoli into the ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve the bright green color.
After a few minutes, drain the broccoli thoroughly and lay it out on paper towels to dry completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Red Onion
Place the finely chopped red onion in a small bowl of cold water.
Let it soak for 5 minutes to mellow the sharp bite, then drain well.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and a pinch of black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Set the dressing aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled and dried broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, drained red onion, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, roasted sunflower seeds, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Pour about half of the citrus poppyseed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Add more dressing to taste, depending on how creamy you like it.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Toss once more before serving.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh:
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The flavors continue to develop, and the salad stays delicious, although it will soften slightly over time.
Make Ahead:
You can blanch the broccoli, cook the bacon, and prepare the dressing a day in advance.
Keep each component separate until ready to assemble for the freshest results.
Warm Up:
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
No reheating needed—just give it a fresh toss before serving.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
This Broccoli Salad with Creamy Citrus Poppyseed Dressing is a bright, crunchy, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
It’s fresh, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
If you have fun twists or questions about making it your own, I’d love to hear all about it!
Call-to-Action
If you make this Broccoli Salad, leave a comment and tell me how you loved it!
Save this recipe for your next potluck, family gathering, or meal prep session, and share it with a friend who loves fresh, hearty salads.
Let’s keep creating delicious, wholesome dishes together!