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5.0 from 90 votes

Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing

RECIPE VIDEO ABOVE. Slicing the florets creates a larger surface area so the dressing tenderises the broccoli more effectively, so the broccoli is tender crisp rather than a harsh, raw bite. I also like to have plenty of dressing because dressing soaked florets is my favourite part, so rather than a mayo only dressing, I opt to make more of a lighter dressing with less mayo that's pourable and coats every piece of broccoli thoroughly. Less oil, more dressing, more flavourings!

Prep Time
15 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Servings: 6 - 8 people
Calories: 290 kcal

Ingredients

Broccoli Salad:
  • 500 g/1 lb broccoli florets (2 large heads, 22cm/9" diameter)
  • 150 g/5oz Bacon , chopped then cooked until golden
  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries (or raisins, sultanas or blueberries)
  • 1/2 cup almond slivers
  • 1/2 red onion , finely sliced
Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 3/4 cup Greek yoghurt or sour cream
  • 1/4 cup / 65ml milk , low fat
  • 1/4 cup / 65ml lemon juice (or cider vinegar)
  • 2 garlic cloves , minced
  • 1 tsp each onion powder , garlic powder, mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried dill
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp finely ground pepper

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Cut the florets into slices no thicker than 0.7 cm / 1/4" thick.
  2. Place in a bowl with remaining Salad ingredients.
  3. Mix Dressing well in a large bowl - use a whisk to ensure it's all well incorporated. It will be thin and pourable - see video for consistency.
  4. Pour all over Salad, toss well.
  5. Cover and refrigerate overnight (minimum 2 hours). Remove from fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

  • Let flavours meld -  This is one of those salads that needs time for the flavours to meld and also for the dressing to soften the broccoli a bit. Raw broccoli is actually very crunchy and some people aren't a fan of that. But the dressing tenderises it a bit so it's tender crisp.
  • If you aren't a fan of raw broccoli in any form, then I suggest steaming the broccoli. Steaming is better than boiling because the florets get waterlogged.
  • Mayonnaise - I recommend Hellman's or S&W (I'm in Australia). Cheaper brands are too sour or too sweet. I don't use mayo much, so when I do I want the good stuff! (PS I love my Japanese Kewpie mayo, but it's not the best for this dish, flavour is too smooth :) )
  • Nutrition per serving, assuming 8 servings.

Nutrition Information

Calories 290cal (15%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6- 8 people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 290

% Daily Value*

Calories 290cal 15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.