Looking for a colorful, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for the holiday season? This Festive Broccoli Salad is a vibrant combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to be a hit. With crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, smoky bacon, and a tangy dressing, it’s the ultimate side dish for your holiday table—or any gathering!
Here’s how to make this easy, delicious salad that brings festive cheer to every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 heads broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1/3 red onion, thinly sliced
- 5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until they are fork-tender but still bright green. Drain the broccoli and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the broccoli crisp and vibrant.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded carrot, sliced red onion, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated. For best results, chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Festive Broccoli Salad
- Bright and Colorful: The vibrant greens, oranges, and reds make this salad a showstopper on any holiday table.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal cooking and prep, it’s a stress-free dish for busy hosting days.
- Customizable: Add sunflower seeds, feta cheese, or even a splash of honey to the dressing for your own twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, potluck, or weekday meal, this salad fits right in.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just wait to toss the dressing until right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
- Crispy Bacon Hack: If you’re short on time, microwave bacon slices for a quick and easy crispy topping.
- Holiday Flair: Swap dried cranberries for pomegranate arils or add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a festive twist.
This Festive Broccoli Salad is a delightful addition to any celebration, blending freshness and flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a centerpiece side for Christmas dinner or a contribution to a holiday potluck, this dish is sure to shine.
Let us know if you try it! What’s your favorite holiday salad twist?
