Easy Broccoli Salad With Cranberries Recipe

You guys, can we talk about how broccoli used to be that vegetable we’d all push around our plates as kids? Well, this broccoli salad recipe has my 13-year-old asking for seconds (it’s probably because of the sweetish dressing, but still!).

When I first started making this crowd-pleasing broccoli salad, my husband gave me that “really?” look. You know the one. But now it’s his go-to potluck contribution, and he actually brags about making it. Marriage win!

This fresh broccoli salad is packed with so much goodness, it’s basically a multivitamin in a bowl (but way more delicious). The combination of crispy broccoli florets, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds creates a great texture that will keep you coming back for more.

Super Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe

This broccoli salad is so easy, you’ll have it prepped in just a few minutes. It’s crunchy, a little sweet, a little tangy, and totally addictive. Plus, there’s no cooking required. Just chop, mix, and let the fridge do the work.

It makes the perfect side dish for a cheesy quiche, a hearty pasta dish, or a warm bowl of tomato soup with crusty bread. Make a big batch for meal prep, and you’ve got a ready-to-go lunch that actually gets better as it sits.

Ingredients for the salad:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads)
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Ingredients for the creamy dressing:

• 3/4 cup mayo (I use plant-based)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Fresh ground pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions for this Broccoli Salad

1. Give your broccoli a good wash and cut it into small, bite-sized florets.
2. Place your broccoli florets in a large bowl. Add the finely diced red onion (I like to soak mine in cold water for 10 minutes first to take away that sharp bite – game changer!), shredded carrots, and cranberries.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. (This is when the magic happens, trust me!)
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with sunflower seeds and give it one final toss.

Storage Tips

This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Though honestly? In our house, it never lasts that long.

Broccoli Salad Recipe Notes and Tips

• Make it Your Own: Feel free to swap the cranberries for raisins, or try pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower seeds.
• Make it ahead: You can prep this salad up to 24 hours in advance. That makes it perfect for everything from summer BBQs to holiday potlucks. Just keep the sunflower seeds separate until serving time to maintain maximum crunchiness. Nobody likes soggy seeds, am I right?

Broccoli Salad Easy Pairing Suggestions

This fresh, crunchy salad makes a fantastic side dish adding a refreshing contrast to warm and hearty meals. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Grilled corn on the cob – The natural sweetness and smoky flavor make it a perfect match.
• Crusty bread or garlic toast – Great for scooping up every last bit of the creamy dressing.
• Cheesy quiche or savory tart – A rich, buttery dish balances the crisp, tangy salad.
• Hearty pasta dishes – Try it alongside baked ziti, pesto pasta, or a creamy fettuccine.
• Stuffed bell peppers – A flavorful and filling option that complements the salad’s crunch.
• Lentil or tomato soup – The contrast between warm soup and chilled salad is so satisfying, plus the combination of both is a pretty healthy meal (if you don’t overdo the mayo!).
• Baked sweet potatoes – Their caramelized and soft texture pairs beautifully with the crunch.
• Savory hand pies or empanadas – A flaky, golden pastry with a flavorful filling is a great addition.

Common Questions

How do I keep the broccoli crisp?
Don’t cut the florets too small, and make sure they’re completely dry before adding the dressing.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
I don’t recommend it for this recipe. Fresh broccoli gives you that perfect crunch that makes this salad special.

Health Benefits of This Broccoli Salad

Did you know broccoli is literally a superfood? It’s loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and all those good-for-you antioxidants. Plus this broccoli salad recipe sneaks in extra nutrition with carrots and sunflower seeds. It’s like meal prepping and self-care all in one bowl!

So there you have it; an easy broccoli salad that’s actually exciting. If you make this recipe, please drop a comment below! I’d love to hear your favorite ways to sneak more greens into your family’s diet!