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Simple Broccoli Salad Recipe: Easy BBQ Side Dish

This broccoli salad with tomatoes is the ultimate blend of simplicity and flavor. Quick to prepare, it complements any type of smoked meat effortlessly and has such, become one of my go-to bbq side dish staples. Packed with nutrients, it’s a guilt-free option for those seeking a healthy yet satisfying addition to their meal. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying this one solo, you’ll love the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.

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Simple broccoli salad side dish bbq

Broccoli Salad

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I love the crispness and tangy flavor you get from this simple broccoli salad recipe. It’s the perfect side to balance out a serving of rich, smoked meat. And, bonus points, it’s best made a little in advance so it’s ideal for entertaining too.

  • Total Time: 5 mins
  • Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale

3 large broccoli heads

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

3 tbsp mayonnaise of choice

1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey

1/4 tsp salt

1/3 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup roasted pepitas

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, honey, and salt. Set aside.

Roughly chop off the broccoli florets into small pieces. Discard any woody stem. Add the chopped broccoli to the dressing in a large bowl. Toss well to combine.

Add the cranberries and pepitas, tossing again to coat.

Season with more salt, if needed, and serve.

Notes

I recommend making this broccoli salad at least 3 hours before you’re ready to serve it. The apple cider vinegar will start to break down the broccoli, softening it a little and making this raw vegetable much more palatable.

It also keeps covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Author: Kate Brown
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Salad, Side recipe

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8th bowl
  • Calories: 110g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Fat: 10.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8.7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2.3g
  • Fiber: 0.9g
  • Protein: 1.7g
  • Cholesterol: 2.1mg
Kate Brown Burning Brisket BBQ Expert
Founder of Burning Brisket and hands-on tester of smokers, grills, and BBQ gear.

Kate Brown is the founder of Burning Brisket, where she shares hands-on smoker reviews, barbecue gear guides, and practical tips for backyard BBQ. She has cooked extensively on charcoal, pellet, electric, and kamado smokers, using real-world experience to help beginners choose the right equipment and make better barbecue at home. Her focus is honest, straightforward advice that makes smoking and grilling easier without unnecessary complexity.

About Burning Brisket

Burning Brisket is one of the leading, independent authorities on all things barbecue. Family-owned and run, it’s our mission uncomplicate the art of smoking to help you enjoy making incredible food at home for your family and friends to create memories over.

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