The Best Broccoli Salad For Any Occasion

This light and fresh Best Broccoli Salad has roots going back more than thirty years in my family!  It’s an original from my sweet aunt Sherry and a staple on Sunday afternoons after church and all our family get-togethers.  I guarantee that your friends and family will love this side dish and go back for seconds!

Food for Thought: Passing Down More Than Recipes

There’s something special about the things we pass down—whether it’s faith, family traditions, or even a favorite recipe like this one. Some of the best stories aren’t written in books; they’re shared around the dinner table, told in the laughter of loved ones, and remembered in the flavors of a meal made with love.

For over thirty years, my Aunt Sherry’s broccoli salad has been a staple at our family gatherings. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a reminder of the people who came before us, the hands that prepared it with love, and the joy of gathering together. Just like a good recipe stands the test of time, so does the legacy we leave behind.

One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” This verse emphasizes the importance of passing down knowledge of God’s works and power to the next generation. Psalm 145:4

This verse reminds us that each generation has the opportunity to share God’s greatness with the next. Whether it’s through our words, our actions, or the simple act of creating a space where family can come together, we are shaping hearts and lives in ways we may not even realize.

So as you make this recipe, or any that have been passed down to you, take a moment to remember the legacy of love and faith you’re building. Because the simplest things—a meal, a prayer, a conversation—can be the very things that carry on for generations to come.

What’s In The Best Broccoli Salad?

The ingredients in this salad are beautiful and delicious.  I love serving it for Mother’s Day, Easter, Pool Parties, you name it.  It keeps well and there’s no cooking at all so it can be put together and ready to serve in 10 minutes or less.  That keeps you out of the kitchen and into the fun.

INGREDIENTS:

• broccoli
• cauliflower
• red bell pepper
• green bell pepper
• red onion
• jarred green olives
• grape tomatoes
• cheddar cheese
• ranch dressing of choice

Can I Substitute Ingredients In The Best Broccoli Salad?

You can absolutely substitute any ingredients that you don’t enjoy in this salad.  If you don’t like cauliflower, feel free to leave it out or replace with chopped red cabbage.  Sometimes I’ll add in additional colored bell peppers like the orange or yellow varieties.  Same with tomatoes – adding yellow, orange, or green grape tomatoes add even more color to an already beautiful salad.

While you can use store-bought ranch, if I have time, I’ll make my own using a ranch seasoning packet.  You could also try this recipe with Greek or Italian dressing for an extra tart bite.  If you want to make this more of a dinner salad or full meal, you can also add protein like bacon, diced chicken, or even steak!

How to Make the Best Broccoli Salad for Any Occasion:

The steps to this salad are super simple:

1. Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets.
2. Dice the bell peppers and onion.
3. Halve the grape tomatoes and drain the jarred olives.
4. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, onion, olives, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and dressing.
5. Gently toss.
6. Serve chilled.
7. Enjoy!

What Can I Serve With the Best Broccoli Salad?

If you’re looking for suppertime inspiration, check out the following recipes that pair well with this salad:

• Turkey & Spinach Lasagna
• Healthier Buffalo Chicken Wings
• Old Fashioned Spaghetti & Meatballs
• The Best Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese