Broccoli Honey Dijon Salad

This broccoli salad with honey dijon dressing transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant side dish that complements any summer gathering. The crisp vegetables paired with savory bacon and tangy-sweet dressing create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first created this recipe when hosting a backyard barbecue for friends with dietary restrictions. It was such a hit that it's become my signature contribution to summer potlucks, and I'm always asked to bring "that amazing broccoli salad."

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli florets: Cut into bite-sized pieces provides the perfect crunchy base and absorbs the dressing beautifully
• Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and satisfying protein look for thick-cut varieties for best texture
• Red onion: Brings sharp flavor and vibrant color choose smaller onions for milder taste
• Red cabbage: Contributes gorgeous color contrast and extra crunch select firm heads with vibrant color
• Shredded carrots: Add natural sweetness and nutrition look for fresh carrots and shred them yourself for best flavor
• Dijon mustard: Creates the tangy base for the dressing select a high-quality brand for best results
• Olive oil: Provides richness and body in the dressing extra virgin gives the best flavor
• Honey: Balances the acidity with natural sweetness local varieties offer unique flavor profiles
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and tang unfiltered versions contain beneficial enzymes
• Fresh garlic: Infuses the dressing with aromatic depth always use fresh rather than pre-minced for optimal flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables:

Chop broccoli into uniform bite-sized florets to ensure they absorb the dressing evenly. Cut red onion into small pieces to distribute the flavor without overwhelming. Slice red cabbage into thin slivers for texture and visual appeal. Either purchase pre-shredded carrots or shred your own for freshness.

Cook the bacon:

Fry bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. The bacon adds a savory element that balances the freshness of the vegetables perfectly. Make sure the pieces are small enough to distribute throughout the salad.

Mix the vegetables:

Combine all chopped vegetables and bacon in a medium bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients. This creates a colorful base with varied textures and flavors in every bite.

Prepare the dressing:

Whisk together dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully emulsified. The dressing should be smooth and well-blended, with no separation of oil.

Combine and serve:

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. The salad can be served immediately but develops even better flavor when refrigerated for at least an hour before serving.

The honey in this dressing is my secret weapon. I discovered its perfect balance with dijon mustard during a cooking experiment one rainy afternoon. My family was skeptical about a broccoli salad but ended up fighting over the last serving. Now I always make a double batch of the dressing to have on hand for quick weekday salads.

Make It Your Own

This broccoli salad welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have available. For added texture and nutrition, consider mixing in sunflower seeds or pepitas. Their nutty crunch complements the vegetables beautifully. Dried cranberries or raisins introduce a pleasant sweet-tart element that balances the savory bacon and tangy dressing. If you prefer a creamier version, adding a quarter cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing creates a richer consistency while maintaining the flavor profile.

Storage Recommendations

This salad maintains its texture and flavor remarkably well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as the vegetables marinate in the dressing. For best results when making ahead, consider reserving a small portion of the dressing to refresh the salad just before serving. This keeps everything vibrant and prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy. The salad travels well for picnics and potlucks but should be kept chilled in a cooler with ice packs.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile broccoli salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it perfect for barbecues and cookouts. It provides a fresh contrast to hearty dishes like pulled pork, grilled chicken, or burgers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a protein and some crusty bread. The salad also works wonderfully as part of a buffet spread or picnic selection. During warmer months, I often prepare this as part of our Sunday meal prep, then serve it throughout the week with different mains for quick, nutritious dinners.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this broccoli salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually benefits from being made ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.

→ How do I store leftover broccoli salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may release some liquid as it sits, so give it a quick toss before serving again.

→ Can I make this broccoli salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives, roasted chickpeas, or toasted nuts for a similar crunchy texture and savory flavor.

→ What can I add to this broccoli salad for extra flavor and texture?

As noted in the recipe, dried cranberries and sunflower seeds make excellent additions. You could also try adding chopped apples, raisins, toasted almonds, feta cheese, or cheddar cheese depending on your preferences.

→ Is this broccoli salad dairy-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally dairy-free. The honey dijon dressing is made with olive oil rather than mayonnaise or yogurt, making it perfect for those avoiding dairy products.

→ How can I make this broccoli salad vegan?

To make this vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and omit the bacon (or use a plant-based bacon alternative).