The Best Broccoli and Bacon Salad Recipe with Cranberries & Cashews

Best Broccoli and Bacon Salad

Discover this Best Broccoli and Bacon Salad recipe with Cranberries and Cashews is a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic broccoli salad favorite. Crispy broccoli florets pair perfectly with smoky bacon, crunchy roasted cashews, and sweet cranberries, creating layers of texture and taste. Tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette with thinly sliced onions, this Broccoli and Bacon Salad recipe balances sweet, smoky, and savory notes in every forkful. Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potluck parties, this easy, crowd-pleasing salad isn’t just a side—it’s a satisfying centerpiece that’s both comforting and elevated.

"The Best Broccoli and Bacon Salad Recipe with Cranberries & Cashews for Weeknights or Holidays."

Serves: 6 generous portions Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: ~35 minutes

Broccoli and Bacon Salad Ingredients

Salad::

• 2 packs smoked bacon

• 6 Cups broccoli crowns (florets separated)

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup roasted cashews (added during bacon cooking)

  
  

Broccoli and Bacon Salad Ingredients: Dressing:

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 4 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 teaspoon no-salt seasoning

  
  

Method:

1. Cook the bacon: Place bacon in a skillet and cook according to package instructions until nearly crispy.

   

   Roasted cashews sprinkled over crispy bacon strips, creating a savory and crunchy delight.

2. Roast the cashews: About 6 minutes before the bacon is done, scatter cashews into the skillet. Let them toast alongside the bacon until golden and fragrant. Remove cashews once browned and set aside.

3. Cool and chop: Transfer bacon to a plate to cool. Once cooled, chop bacon and cashews into small pieces, keeping them separate.

4. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and no-salt seasoning until emulsified.

5. Assemble the Broccoli and Bacon Salad: Add broccoli florets, sliced onions, bacon, roasted cashews, and cranberries into the bowl with the dressing. Toss well for about 5 minutes until everything is evenly coated.

Notes & Tips

• This This Broccoli Bacon Salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep.

• Swap cranberries for raisins or dried cherries for a different sweetness profile.

• This salad is perfect as a hearty side or even a light main dish. It balances smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors with a mix of crunchy and juicy textures—making it just as welcome at a weeknight dinner as it is at a special gathering.