A delightful blend of crisp broccoli florets, smoky bacon, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a rich, creamy dressing with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This cold salad is an ideal addition to any potluck, picnic, or summer barbecue spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli Bacon Salad strikes a perfect balance between fresh and indulgent. The vibrant crunch of broccoli pairs beautifully with savory bacon, chewy cranberries, and slivered almonds, while the creamy dressing adds a rich, tangy finish. It’s easy to prepare, travels well, and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prep. Not only is it gluten-free and low-carb friendly, but it also delivers satisfying texture and flavor in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-sized pieces
Crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Sweetened dried cranberries
Red onion, finely diced
Sliced almonds
Mayonnaise
Granulated sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, cranberries, red onion, and sliced almonds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Stir again before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheese Addition: Add shredded cheddar cheese for a richer taste.
Nut Substitution: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts.
Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo and omit bacon, or replace with plant-based bacon bits.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the dressing.
Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with chopped apples or raisins for a different sweetness profile.

storage/reheating

This salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 3–4 days. Since it’s a cold salad, there’s no need for reheating. Stir well before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

FAQs

What type of bacon works best for this salad?

Thick-cut bacon cooked until crispy is ideal, as it holds its texture well when mixed into the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better after chilling for an hour or more, as this allows the flavors to blend nicely.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

It’s not recommended, as frozen broccoli lacks the crisp texture that fresh florets provide.

How do I make it lower in sugar?

Use unsweetened cranberries or reduce the sugar in the dressing to your taste.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used for a tangier, lighter dressing alternative.

Will this salad get soggy?

It stays crisp for up to 3 days when stored properly, but it’s best enjoyed within the first two days.

What’s a good substitute for apple cider vinegar?

You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

Can I omit the nuts?

Absolutely. You can omit the almonds or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, if you use sugar-free cranberries and omit or reduce the sugar in the dressing, it can fit into a keto diet.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli Bacon Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers both crunch and creaminess in every bite. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a festive potluck, or just want a quick, nourishing side dish, this salad is sure to become a staple. Its versatility, make-ahead convenience, and crowd-pleasing taste make it a standout addition to any meal.