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Broccoli Apple Salad

A crisp and colorful salad combining fresh broccoli florets with sweet apples in a creamy, tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks and family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large Honeycrisp or Gala apples, diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts
  • 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Wash and chop broccoli into small, uniform bite-sized florets. Dice apples with the skin on, keeping pieces similar in size. Pat everything dry with paper towels to prevent a watery salad.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go.
  4. In a large serving bowl, combine broccoli, diced apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour the dressing over top and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is lightly coated.
  5. Fold in the crumbled bacon last to keep it crispy. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Give it one final gentle stir before bringing to the table.

Notes

Make this salad in the morning and let it chill until dinner for best flavor. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Don't cut broccoli pieces too large, avoid making too far ahead as apples can brown, and don't overdress the salad. For meal prep, add fresh bacon bits just before serving leftovers. Try blanching broccoli for 1-2 minutes if kids don't like raw broccoli. Toss diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.