Walmart’s broccoli salad has become a favorite for many thanks to its perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and tang. This dish combines fresh broccoli florets with crispy bacon, red onions, and a creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s a versatile side that works great for potlucks, BBQs, or a simple family dinner.
We’ve recreated this popular salad to bring that same delicious taste right to your kitchen. Our recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of Walmart’s version or trying broccoli salad for the first time, this recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
We start with simple fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together to recreate the Walmart broccoli salad experience right in our kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role—from crunchy textures to creamy dressing flavors—ensuring a salad that’s both satisfying and easy to assemble.
Fresh Broccoli
The star of our salad is crisp fresh broccoli. We use:
- 4 cups of broccoli florets, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- Optionally, include some tender stalks peeled and diced for extra crunch
Using Fresh Broccoli ensures a vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that makes the salad so inviting.
Bacon
Crispy bacon adds that irresistible smoky flavor and crisp texture.
- 6 strips of thick-cut bacon
- Cook until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble
This smoky crunch is essential in balancing the freshness of the broccoli and the creaminess of the dressing.
Red Onion
For a mild sharpness and bright color, we add:
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced
The red onion lends a sweet yet punchy flavor that complements the other elements of the salad perfectly.
Shredded Cheese
We use shredded cheddar cheese to bring a creamy richness:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
This adds depth and a subtle tang that works well with both the vegetables and the dressing.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds contribute an extra nutty crunch:
- ½ cup shelled sunflower seeds, toasted lightly
Toasting enhances their flavor and texture, making every bite exciting.
Raisins or Dried Cranberries
A touch of natural sweetness comes from dried fruit:
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
These add a subtle chewiness and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Dressing Ingredients
The creamy dressing brings all the flavors together smoothly:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Adds tangy brightness |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | Balances acidity |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground recommended |
Mix these ingredients well to create a luscious dressing that coats the broccoli and toppings evenly, delivering that classic Walmart broccoli salad taste we all love.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Recipe For Walmart Broccoli Salad with precision and ease, having the right Tools and Equipment is essential. Here’s what we recommend:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board to chop broccoli florets, dice red onions, and mince bacon.
- Chef’s Knife: Sharp and reliable for clean, even cuts of vegetables and bacon.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl to toss the salad ingredients thoroughly and a smaller one for mixing the creamy dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and seasonings ensures balanced flavor.
- Frying Pan or Skillet: For crisping bacon until it reaches the perfect smoky crunch.
- Salad Spinner (Optional): Great for drying washed broccoli florets, preventing watery dressing.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For folding the salad together without bruising delicate ingredients.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping broccoli, onions, and bacon |
| Chef’s Knife | Precise and safe cutting |
| Mixing Bowls | Tossing salad and mixing dressing |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Frying Pan/Skillet | Cooking crispy bacon |
| Salad Spinner (Opt.) | Drying broccoli florets |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Gently combining ingredients |
Pro Tip: “Using a salad spinner ensures your broccoli stays crisp and the dressing clings perfectly.”
By organizing our workspace with these tools, we streamline the process of crafting the Walmart broccoli salad that bursts with flavor and texture every time.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create the perfect Walmart Broccoli Salad with vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Prep the Broccoli and Vegetables
- Rinse fresh broccoli florets under cold water using a salad spinner to remove excess moisture while preserving crispness.
- Pat dry if you don’t have a spinner, ensuring broccoli is as dry as possible to help the dressing stick.
- Finely dice red onion to add a mild sharpness that complements the broccoli’s earthiness.
- Set the prepped broccoli and onions aside in a large mixing bowl.
Cook the Bacon
- Place 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a cold frying pan.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Reserve a tablespoon of bacon fat for optional flavor enhancement in the dressing.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together these ingredients until smooth:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ tsp |
- For extra depth, add 1 teaspoon of reserved bacon fat.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, ensuring a balanced blend of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Combine Salad Ingredients
- Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup), toasted sunflower seeds (½ cup), and dried cranberries or raisins (½ cup) to the bowl with broccoli and onions.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until all components are evenly coated.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon last to maintain its crispy texture.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Pro Tip: Using a salad spinner during the prep keeps broccoli crisp and helps the creamy dressing cling perfectly.
Directions for Serving
To get the best flavor and texture from our Walmart Broccoli Salad, proper chilling and thoughtful serving elevate this dish to a crowd-pleaser. Let’s explore how to prepare it for an enjoyable tasting experience.
Chilling the Salad
Chilling is a crucial step that allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to fully coat the crunchy ingredients. Here’s how we chill the salad to perfection:
- Transfer the tossed broccoli salad into an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours; for best results, chill it overnight.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing evenly.
- If the salad looks slightly dry after chilling, add a small drizzle of mayonnaise or apple cider vinegar and toss again.
| Chilling Time | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 hours | Allows flavors to meld |
| Overnight | Enhances taste and dressing coverage |
Serving Suggestions
Our Walmart Broccoli Salad shines as both a side dish and a standalone snack. Here are some creative ways to serve it:
- Potluck favorite: Serve chilled in a large colorful bowl with a wooden spoon to encourage casual sharing.
- Family dinners: Accompany grilled meats or roasted chicken for a refreshing, crunchy contrast.
- Picnic or barbecue: Pack the salad in a portable container to keep it fresh and ready to enjoy outdoors.
- Individual servings: Spoon portions onto small plates and garnish with extra crispy bacon or toasted sunflower seeds for a fancy touch.
“Serve this salad cold to keep the broccoli crisp and the dressing creamy. Presentation is key to making this dish irresistible.”
Using chilled plates can also enhance the serving experience by keeping the salad cool longer. Pair the salad with crusty bread or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure the Walmart Broccoli Salad delivers maximum flavor and crispness, careful preparation ahead of time is key. Our tips below help you plan so the salad is fresh, vibrant, and perfectly coated in dressing when served.
Chill the Salad Thoroughly
After combining all ingredients with the creamy dressing, cover the salad tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours. For best results, allow the flavors to meld overnight. This chilling time lets the dressing penetrate every bite while maintaining the broccoli’s crunch.
| Chilling Time | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 hours | Quick flavor melding |
| Overnight (8+ hours) | Full flavor infusion and crispness |
“Chilling is not just resting time—it’s when the salad blossoms into its full delicious potential.”
Prep Ingredients in Advance
We recommend prepping the components separately a day before to streamline assembly:
- Broccoli: Rinse, trim, and spin or pat dry completely to avoid sogginess.
- Bacon: Cook until crisp, drain on paper towels, then cool before breaking into pieces.
- Onions & Cheese: Dice and shred, then store in airtight containers.
- Dressing: Whisk together and refrigerate to allow flavors to deepen.
Keeping the ingredients separate before the final toss prevents wilting or losing texture.
Combine Just Before Serving
For an ultra-crisp result, toss the broccoli florets with the dressing and add bacon, cheese, dried fruit, and seeds right before serving. This method keeps crunchy elements from becoming soggy while still giving the salad a creamy, coated finish.
Storage Recommendations
Store leftover salad in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice dressing separation, give it a gentle stir. Avoid freezing to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Summary Table: Make-Ahead Checklist
| Step | When to Prepare | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli prep | 24 hours before serving | Airtight container, keep dry |
| Bacon cooking | 24 hours before serving | Store crisp in fridge |
| Onion & cheese prep | 24 hours before serving | Airtight container |
| Dressing preparation | 24 hours before serving | Refrigerate in covered jar |
| Final assembly | 1-2 hours before serving | Toss well, chill, or serve immediately |
By following these make-ahead tips, we guarantee each bite of our Walmart Broccoli Salad bursts with fresh crispness and rich, balanced flavor every time.
Conclusion
This broccoli salad recipe captures the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and subtle sweetness that makes Walmart’s version so beloved. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy dish to prepare anytime we want a fresh and flavorful side. Whether for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this salad delivers consistently satisfying results.
By following the tips for prepping and chilling, we ensure every bite stays crisp and delicious. It’s a versatile recipe that fits well into our busy lives without sacrificing taste. Once you try it, this broccoli salad will likely become a go-to favorite in our recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Walmart’s broccoli salad?
You’ll need fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, diced red onion, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, toasted sunflower seeds, dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the creamy dressing for the salad?
Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Optionally, add reserved bacon fat for extra smoky flavor. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Why is chilling the salad important?
Chilling the salad for at least 1 to 2 hours allows the flavors to blend and helps the dressing coat the ingredients thoroughly, enhancing the salad’s taste and texture.
Can I make Walmart broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prep the ingredients separately a day in advance to prevent wilting. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
How should I store leftover salad?
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the salad’s texture and flavor.
What occasions is this broccoli salad best for?
It’s great for potlucks, family dinners, picnics, or as a side dish or snack anytime you want a crunchy, creamy salad. Its versatility makes it ideal for many occasions.
What tools do I need to make this salad?
A sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, frying pan for bacon, and optionally a salad spinner to keep broccoli crisp and a spatula for mixing.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp in the salad?
Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry the broccoli after rinsing. Dry broccoli holds the dressing better and stays crunchy longer in the salad.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes. You can swap sunflower seeds for nuts like almonds or pecans, or use other dried fruits. Just keep the balance of crunchy, creamy, and sweet elements for the best flavor.