Bacon and broccoli salad with sunflower seeds and cranberries

Discover a delightful Bacon and Broccoli Salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh broccoli, crunchy sunflower seeds, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dried cranberries, all tossed in a light mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish!

26 Mar 2025
Cook time 8 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 strips bacon
6 cups broccoli
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1 tomato
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1 tbsp mayonnaise salad dressing
Bacon and broccoli salad with sunflower seeds and cranberries

Bacon and broccoli salad is a delightful and nutritious option that's perfect for any meal. The crunchiness of the broccoli pairs beautifully with the savory bacon, while the sunflower seeds add a delightful nutty flavor. Tomatoes provide a burst of freshness, and cranberries add a touch of sweetness. This salad is quick to prepare and is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the strips of bacon and cook until they are crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- When cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, discarding any tough stems.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
- Blanch the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Immediately drain the broccoli and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water.
3. Chop the Tomato:
- Wash the tomato under cool water.
- Cut the tomato into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, chopped tomato, and dried cranberries.
- Add the mayonnaise salad dressing to the bowl.
- Toss all the ingredients together until well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
- If desired, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.

Tips:

- For extra flavor, toast the sunflower seeds in a pan for a few minutes until they are golden brown.

- Blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes in boiling water and then immediately place it in ice water to retain its crunch and bright green color.

- Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture in your salad.

- Feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

- Add a splash of lemon juice to the mayo dressing for an extra tangy flavor.

This Bacon and Broccoli Salad with sunflower seeds, tomato, and cranberries is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please your taste buds. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements!

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 99kcal
Protein 4.13g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 2.80g
Sugar 2.96g
Fat 5g

More recipes

Mediterranean chickpea salad

Perfect as a healthy lunch or a vibrant side dish.

26 May 2025

Green beans with chickpeas

Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

24 May 2025

Grilled onion salad with rosemary

Simple, wholesome ingredients and easy preparation make this salad an effortless yet impressive addition to your meal repertoire.

07 Apr 2025

Grilled romaine with lemon and olive oil

Perfect as a light, healthy side dish or a refreshing summer appetizer.

12 Apr 2025

Sweet cucumber and radish salad

Perfect as a side or a stand-alone treat.

04 Apr 2025

Roast potato salad

Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main, this salad strikes a perfect balance between taste and nutrition.

19 May 2025

Cucumber salad with onion, red peppers and vinegar.

An easy, healthy side dish that's bursting with flavor.

20 May 2025

Panzanella

Perfect for a light, healthy meal or a vibrant side dish.

23 Apr 2025

Posts