Why You’ll Love this Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad
If you’re looking for a salad that hits all the right notes, this Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad is about to become your new favorite. I’m obsessed with the perfect balance of textures and flavors – crisp broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, sweet raisins, and crunchy sunflower seeds create a symphony in every bite.
What makes it truly supreme? The dressing. That combination of creamy mayo, sugar, and two types of vinegar transforms ordinary broccoli into something magical. And let’s talk about those bacon bits added right before serving – genius move for maintaining maximum crispness.
It’s invigoratingly versatile, too. Need a potluck showstopper? Check. Quick weeknight side? Absolutely. Meal prep champion? You bet. The way the flavors meld in the fridge overnight? Simply divine.
What Ingredients are in Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad?
This crunchy broccoli salad is absolutely bursting with flavor and texture in every bite. The combination of fresh vegetables, sweet additions, and a tangy dressing creates a perfect balance that makes this dish a standout at any gathering. I’m always amazed at how something so healthy can taste so indulgent at the same time.
- 3 heads fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 large sweet red pepper, chopped
- 1 cup matchstick or grated carrots
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4-1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 1 cup low-fat mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon red wine
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon onion flakes
When shopping for ingredients, try to select the freshest broccoli you can find—bright green florets with firm stems work best for that signature crunch. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility; don’t care for raisins? Swap in dried cranberries. Need to make it vegetarian? Simply omit the bacon (though it does add a wonderful smoky element). And while the recipe calls for low-fat mayonnaise, you could substitute regular mayo or even a vegan alternative if dietary restrictions are a concern.
How to Make this Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad
Making this broccoli salad is all about combining fresh, crunchy ingredients with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. Start by preparing your vegetables—cut 3 heads of fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl. To this vibrant green base, add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of raisins for sweetness, a large chopped sweet red pepper for color, and 1 cup of matchstick or grated carrots. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds for extra crunch. Notice how the colors are already making this salad look absolutely gorgeous? That’s what I love about this recipe—it’s as beautiful as it’s delicious.
For the dressing, you’ll want to combine 1 cup of low-fat mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of red wine, 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon of onion flakes in a separate bowl. Mix these ingredients thoroughly, adjusting the onion flakes to suit your taste preferences. The dressing should be creamy but with a nice tang from the vinegar. Pour this mixture over your vegetable medley and toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated. For even better flavor, prepare the components using a quality cast iron cooking set that distributes heat evenly. The final touch? Adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup of crumbled, cooked bacon just before serving—this keeps it crispy and adds that irresistible savory element that takes this salad from good to unforgettable.
Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad Substitutions and Variations
While the classic version of this broccoli salad is already a showstopper, you can easily adapt it to suit dietary needs or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
For a vegetarian option, simply skip the bacon or substitute with smoked tempeh. Not a fan of raisins? Dried cranberries or cherries work beautifully. The cheddar cheese can be swapped for feta, goat cheese, or a dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding lactose.
Don’t have sunflower seeds? Try pepitas, chopped walnuts, or slivered almonds for that essential crunch. For a tangier dressing, add a splash more vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. And if you’re watching sugar intake, a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup can replace the sugar. The possibilities? Nearly endless.
What to Serve with Crunchy Supreme Broccoli Salad
Wondering what pairs perfectly with this vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad? I’m convinced it’s the ideal companion for grilled meats – think juicy chicken breasts, seared steaks, or even salmon fillets. The creamy, tangy dressing cuts through the richness of barbecued ribs or burgers.
For potlucks and family gatherings, this salad sits beautifully alongside other picnic classics like potato salad or baked beans. Going for a lighter meal? Serve it with a warm roll and call it lunch, trust me.
My personal favorite pairing? A simple rotisserie chicken and some crusty bread. The salad brings all the color, texture, and nutrition to the plate while letting me skip extensive cooking on busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This broccoli salad has become my go-to recipe for almost every occasion. There’s something magical about the combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet raisins, and savory bacon that simply works. Don’t you love when a dish can be both healthy and indulgent at the same time?
The beauty of Lioness’s Broccoli Salad Supreme lies in its versatility. You can prep it ahead, customize the ingredients to your liking, and watch as it disappears at potlucks and family gatherings. The dressing, with its perfect balance of creamy mayo, sugar, and vinegar, ties everything together.
Remember to add those bacon bits right before serving for maximum crunch. Trust me, this salad might just convert even the most stubborn broccoli skeptics in your life.