POOLSIDE BROCCOLI SALAD
Crisp • Cool • Sweet-Savory • Refreshing
Serves
6–8 people
Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Chill: 30–60 minutes (recommended)
INGREDIENTS
Salad Base
5 cups fresh broccoli florets, bite-size
1 apple, cored and diced (Honeycrisp or Gala)
1 pear, cored and diced (firm but ripe)
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
½ cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds
⅓ cup cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon, crumbled (optional but delicious)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Creamy Poolside Dressing
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
2–3 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
INSTRUCTIONS
1️⃣ Prep the Broccoli
Wash and dry broccoli well
Cut into small florets for easy eating
(Optional: blanch for 30 seconds, then ice bath for extra tenderness)
2️⃣ Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine:
Broccoli florets
Diced apple
Diced pear
Red onion
Dried cranberries
Seeds or nuts
Bacon (if using)
Cheese (if using)
Toss gently to distribute evenly
3️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Vinegar or lemon juice
Honey or sugar
Salt
Pepper
Dijon mustard
Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity
4️⃣ Combine & Chill
Pour dressing over salad
Toss until everything is well coated
Cover and refrigerate 30–60 minutes before serving
This allows flavors to blend and broccoli to soften slightly
SERVING TIPS
Serve cold or slightly chilled
Stir again just before serving
Sprinkle extra seeds or nuts on top for crunch
EASY VARIATIONS
Lighter Version
Use half Greek yogurt + half mayo
Extra Sweet & Fruity
Add grapes or mandarin oranges
Nut-Free
Skip nuts and use pumpkin seeds
Vegan
Use vegan mayo and maple syrup
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas
WHY THIS SALAD SHINES
Crunchy & refreshing
Sweet-savory balance
Holds up well at parties
Perfect for summer heat and pool days
