Broccoli Raisin Salad

I’ll be honest—broccoli raisin salad didn’t exactly scream “crowd favorite” the first time I made it. But then I took a bite. The crunch of fresh broccoli, the chewy sweetness of raisins, crispy bits of bacon, and that creamy dressing? It just works.

Now it’s one of my favorite quick recipes—ready in about 15 minutes and perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or just keeping in the fridge for easy lunches. Simple, satisfying, and weirdly addictive.

Broccoli Raisin Salad Recipe Summary: Sweet, Crunchy, and Creamy in Every Bite

This broccoli raisin salad is everything a side dish should be—crunchy, creamy, a little sweet, a little salty, and ridiculously easy to throw together. You’ve got fresh chopped broccoli, juicy raisins, sunflower seeds for that nutty crunch, and crispy bacon bits all coated in a tangy-sweet mayo dressing.

The combo might sound odd at first, but somehow it just works. My niece—who usually turns her nose up at anything green—actually asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was gold.

Whether you’re making it for a weekend BBQ or just packing it up for lunch, this broccoli raisin salad never lasts long. It’s one of those recipes that gets even better after a night in the fridge.

Broccoli Raisin Salad Ingredients: Quick Rundown & Easy Swaps

Here’s what makes this salad so good—and how you can tweak it to fit your taste or pantry.

• Broccoli: Fresh only! Chop it small for best texture. Want it softer? Give it a quick blanch.
• Raisins: Classic or golden both work. Not into raisins? Try dried cranberries or chopped apricots.
• Bacon: Crispy, salty, smoky—basically the flavor bomb. Use real bacon or pre-cooked bits if you’re in a rush.
• Sunflower Seeds: Add crunch and nuttiness. Swap with pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts if needed.
• Dressing: Mayo, vinegar, sugar, black pepper. You can sub in Greek yogurt or lighten it up with half-and-half mayo/yogurt.

And hey, learn about the nutritional benefits of pale veggies like cauliflower and broccoli if you want a little bonus reason to make this salad.

How to Make Broccoli Raisin Salad in 3 Easy Steps

This salad is all about mix, whisk, toss. That’s it. Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Combine the Good Stuff

In a big bowl, toss together:

• 5 cups chopped fresh broccoli
• ¾ cup raisins
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon

2. Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, stir until smooth:

• 1 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

3. Toss & Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss until everything’s coated evenly. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Boom—done.

Pro tip: It tastes even better the next day.

Broccoli Raisin Salad Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best parts about this broccoli raisin salad? It actually gets better the longer it sits.

• Make it the night before: The flavors blend beautifully, the broccoli softens just slightly, and the raisins plump up. Win-win-win.
• Storage: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.
• Meal prep hack: You can prep the dressing and salad base separately, then mix right before serving for max crunch.

Perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or when you just don’t want to think about what’s for dinner tomorrow.

Broccoli Raisin Salad Tips & Easy Ingredient Swaps

Want to shake things up or tailor it to your taste? Here are some no-fuss ways to switch things around:

Sweet Swaps

• Not into raisins? Try dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even diced dates.
• Golden raisins give a lighter, tangier flavor (and a pop of color).

Add-Ins That Work

• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a little bite.
• Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans bring great texture.
• Shredded cheddar: Adds creaminess and richness.
• Cooked chicken or turkey: Boom—lunch.

Dressing Lightener

• Use half mayo, half Greek yogurt to cut down on fat while keeping it creamy.
• Want more tang? Splash in a little Dijon mustard or lemon juice.

Make It Vegetarian

• Skip the bacon or use a plant-based version—still delicious.

Bulk It Up with Protein

• Add hard-boiled eggs, tofu, or any leftover cooked meat.
• Need inspiration? Here are some easy protein additions to salads and sides.

Going Low-Carb or Gluten-Free?

• You’re in luck—this salad is naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly as is.
• And if you’re planning a full menu, check out these low-carb friendly recipes to round out your menu.

What to Serve with Broccoli Raisin Salad

This salad plays well with just about everything—it’s the ultimate team player. Here’s how to make it shine:

Backyard BBQs & Grilled Goodness

• Serve it with grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs.
• Try it next to pulled pork sandwiches or smoked sausage.

Looking for regional inspo? Pair it with classic Southern-style sides for a full-on comfort food spread.

Easy Lunch Plates

• Pile it next to a turkey sandwich or wrap.
• Add a scoop to a lunch bowl with quinoa and extra protein.

Got leftover chicken? Here are some ideas to repurpose chicken with fresh sides—this salad fits right in.

Colorful Veggie Pairings

• Roast up root vegetables as a hearty companion dish.
• Or mix in complementary colorful vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes for a vibrant spread.

Holiday Table-Ready

• It’s also a great vegetarian side dish perfect for spring holidays.
• Light, fresh, and holds up well on buffet tables.

Broccoli Raisin Salad Recipe Card

Broccoli Raisin Salad

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• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

Sweet, crunchy, creamy, and weirdly addictive—this broccoli raisin salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or easy lunches. Crisp broccoli, juicy raisins, bacon bits, and sunflower seeds tossed in a tangy-sweet mayo dressing. Even picky eaters go back for seconds.

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Ingredients

• 5 cups chopped fresh broccoli
• ¾ cup raisins
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, raisins, sunflower seeds, and cooked bacon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
4. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Tastes even better the next day. Swap raisins with dried cranberries or chopped apricots. Use Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing. Vegetarian? Skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: broccoli, salad, bacon, raisins, potluck, creamy salad

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