I can’t help but hear Dana Carvey sing the Broccoli Song every time I make this salad. This is a great summer salad to bring to a BBQ or simply just for yourself, especially if you love broccoli like I do.
Ingredients for Salad
- 12 oz bag Green Giant broccoli florets (save time by using pre-cut florets)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 2-3 carrots, shredded (rainbow carrots add a beautiful touch of color)
- 1 handful dried cranberries and/or raisins
- 1 handful sunflower seeds (for crunch)
- 6-8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
Ingredients for Salad Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (add more if you like it creamier)
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 squirts (roughly 2 tablespoons) agave nectar
- Sea salt to taste
- Fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Salad:
- Place the broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl. Cut any larger florets into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the finely diced red onion and shredded carrots to the bowl.
- Toss in the dried cranberries and/or raisins.
- Add the chopped crispy bacon.
- Add sunflower seeds.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a mason jar, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, agave nectar, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Secure the lid and shake the jar vigorously until the dressing is well mixed. Alternatively, whisk the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
- Combine and Marinate:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and stir well to coat all the ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of cranberries/raisins to your liking.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours, stirring occasionally. The flavors meld and improve the longer it marinades.
- Serve:
Serve chilled. This salad pairs perfectly with BBQ, grilled chicken dishes, or as a standalone meal.
Optional Tips
- For a bit of variety, try adding a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dressing.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.


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