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The Perfect Broccoli Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic (Half Batch)

Updated: Jun 7


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Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 8 cups fresh broccoli florets (nickel to quarter-sized pieces), rinsed and well-drained

  • 1 lb. crisp-cooked bacon, chopped into bits

  • 1/2 cup sunflower seed kernels, slivered almonds, candied pecans, or walnuts

  • 1 cup dried cranberries, golden raisins, or dried cherries

For the Dressing:

  • 1.5 cups mayonnaise (Duke's preferred - it makes a difference!)

  • 1/3 cup sugar

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 full lemon)

  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt


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Instructions

  1. Prep your broccoli: Cut into uniform, bite-sized florets. The key is consistency - you want each piece to be about nickel to quarter-sized for the perfect bite.

  2. Make the dressing: Whisk together mayo, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

  3. Combine and chill: Toss all salad ingredients with the dressing until well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours - this resting time is crucial for developing flavors.

  4. 8 cups fresh broccoli florets (nickel to quarter sized) rinsed and drained well

  5. 1 lb. chopped (bits) of crisp cooked bacon

  6. 1/2 cup sunflower seed kernels, silvered almonds, candied pecans, or walnuts

  7. 1 cup dried cranberries, golden raisins, or dried cherries


Toss items into dressing and chill for a couple of hours.



Ben's Gadgets: Essential Tools for Perfect Broccoli Salad

The right tools make all the difference in the kitchen. Here are my go-to gadgets for this recipe:


Good Grips Stainless Steel 3 qt./2.8L Colander

This colander is a game-changer for this recipe! The stainless steel construction means it won't stain or retain odors, the non-slip handles give you a secure grip even when wet, and the 3-quart capacity is perfect for this recipe size.



Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids - Stainless Steel Nesting Bowl Set

This bowl set is your workhorse for this recipe. You need something big enough to toss all ingredients without making a mess, and those airtight lids are essential for that crucial chilling time. The nesting design saves cabinet space too!


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