If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious dish to add to your recipe collection, this Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brilliantly balances crisp broccoli florets with the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese, and the satisfying crunch of sunflower seeds. Tossed in a luscious honey-infused dressing with a hint of apple cider vinegar, this salad is as colorful and flavorful as it is simple to make. Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll quickly become a favorite addition to your family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe. Each component plays a special role in creating that delightful mixture of textures and flavors, from fresh crispness to sweet and savory bursts.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Choose fresh, bright green florets for the best crunch and nutrition.
- Red onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/4 cup): Provides a creamy, savory element that melts beautifully into each bite.
- Sunflower seeds (1/4 cup): The perfect nutty crunch to elevate texture and flavor.
- Dried cranberries (1/4 cup): Infuses sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creates a smooth, creamy dressing that binds everything together.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the salad.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances acidity with natural sweetness in the dressing.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the salad.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a mild kick of warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Begin by giving your broccoli florets a thorough rinse under cold water. This removes any dirt and ensures a fresh base for your salad. Once clean, carefully chop the florets into bite-sized pieces, focusing on keeping only the tender parts and leaving out the tough stems. This ensures every forkful is delightfully crisp and easy to eat.
Step 2: Mix the Vegetables and Cheese
Place the chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl and add the finely chopped red onion. The size of the onion pieces is important here – keep them small enough so their flavor melds perfectly without overwhelming the salad. Then, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, which adds a creamy and slightly sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Crunch and Sweetness
Measure out sunflower seeds and dried cranberries, adding both to the bowl with your broccoli, onion, and cheese mixture. The sunflower seeds bring an irresistible crunch as well as a subtle nuttiness, while the cranberries lend bright bursts of sweetness and a cheerful pop of color that makes this salad so inviting.
Step 4: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, blend together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and perfectly combined. This dressing is the magic that ties every component of the salad together with a balance of tang, sweetness, and creaminess that is just irresistible.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Take your time here so every bite has a perfect balance of crunch, chew, and creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary – a little more salt or pepper can make all the difference. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling step helps the flavors meld beautifully, making your Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe even better.
Step 6: Final Toss and Serve
Once chilled, give the salad one last gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly. Serve this vibrant, crunchy salad cold to enjoy the refreshing textures and the wonderful harmony of flavors that make this recipe a standout.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra pizzazz, sprinkle some additional sunflower seeds and a few dried cranberries on top right before serving. Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives also add a fragrant, colorful touch that brightens the dish. These simple garnishes can turn a great salad into one that looks and tastes restaurant-quality.
Side Dishes
This salad makes an excellent sidekick to grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or fish. It’s also fantastic alongside casual fare like barbecue ribs or sandwiches. The freshness and texture contrast of the salad complement heartier dishes perfectly and help balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe in mini mason jars for charming individual portions. Alternatively, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or even as a filling for wraps to add a crunchy, tangy surprise. The versatility of this salad means you can enjoy it in fun and imaginative ways beyond the usual bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the broccoli may soften slightly as it sits, but the flavors will continue to deepen, making it perfect for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
Due to the fresh crunch of broccoli and texture of sunflower seeds, freezing this salad is not recommended. The ingredients tend to become mushy and lose their contrast when thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, simply remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off without warming it.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with a healthier option?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a lighter alternative that still provides creaminess. You can also try a mixture of yogurt and a bit of olive oil for a richer texture.
Are there alternatives to sunflower seeds?
Yes, if you’re allergic or simply want variety, try toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped walnuts, or sliced almonds. Each will add a unique crunch and nutty flavor.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
This Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe is best made a few hours ahead, ideally refrigerated for at least one hour before serving. Preparing it the day before works well, but try to avoid making it more than 24 hours in advance to keep the texture fresh.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! For a heartier meal, toss in cooked and cooled chicken breast cubes, crispy bacon bits, or chickpeas to add both protein and additional flavor layers.
What other dressings could I experiment with?
If you want to switch things up, a light vinaigrette with lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of Dijon mustard can add a zesty twist while keeping the salad fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe that makes it a standout at any table. The blend of textures and flavors is fun, fresh, and satisfying all at once. Whether you’re packing it for lunch, bringing it to a party, or enjoying it as a nutritious side, this salad will quickly become a beloved recipe. Don’t hesitate to try it—you just might discover your new favorite way to enjoy broccoli!
Print
Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Cheddar, and Sunflower Seeds Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 15m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and crunchy broccoli salad featuring fresh broccoli florets, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet homemade mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light snack, this no-cook salad combines vibrant flavors and textures for a delightful and healthy dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that the stems are removed and only the florets remain.
- Combine Broccoli: Place the chopped broccoli florets into a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare Onion: Peel and finely chop the red onion, making sure the pieces are small enough to blend well with the broccoli.
- Add Onion: Add the chopped red onion to the bowl with the broccoli florets.
- Add Cheese: Measure out the shredded cheddar cheese and add it to the bowl with the broccoli and onion mixture.
- Add Sunflower Seeds: Measure out the sunflower seeds and add them to the same bowl.
- Add Cranberries: Measure the dried cranberries and stir them into the mixture.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix Dressing: Whisk the ingredients together until they are fully combined into a smooth dressing.
- Dress Salad: Pour the dressing over the broccoli salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
- Toss Salad: Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss the salad, making sure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Once everything is mixed together, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir Again: After refrigerating, stir the salad once more before serving to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled and enjoy the refreshing crunch and balance of flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
- You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or dried cherries if preferred.
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise and cheddar cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust honey in the dressing to taste or substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Sunflower seeds add a nice crunch but can be replaced with chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts if desired.
