Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad

Name: Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love how this Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad combines crunchy textures and vibrant flavors in every bite. The crispness of the broccoli contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dried cranberries and the heat from the red pepper flakes. It’s a refreshing dish that serves well as a side or a light meal. This salad not only looks inviting with its bright colors, but it also packs a nutritional punch that makes me feel great. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:56:28.431Z

When I first tried this Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a remarkable dish. The combination of broccoli with a tangy dressing and a sprinkle of sweet cranberries is addictive. I love adding a touch of heat with the red pepper flakes, which brings out the flavors beautifully. It’s an easy go-to recipe that I often whip up for picnics and barbecues.

I've experimented with various dressings, but I found that a mix of apple cider vinegar and honey creates the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. The key is making the dressing just before serving to keep the broccoli fresh and crisp. This salad is quick to prepare and is sure to impress my guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Crisp texture that satisfies with every bite
Versatile enough to serve at any occasion

Balancing Sweetness and Spice

The combination of dried cranberries and red pepper flakes in this salad creates a beautiful interplay of flavors. The sweetness of the cranberries complements the heat from the red pepper, making each bite a delightful mix of sensations. When adding the red pepper flakes, start with a smaller amount—about half a teaspoon—and taste the dressing before adding more. This allows you to control the heat level to your preference.

For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting the sunflower seeds before adding them to the salad. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally until they turn golden and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This extra step enhances their nuttiness and adds a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the broccoli.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately from the salad components to keep everything crisp. You can prepare the broccoli, tomatoes, cranberries, onion, and seeds in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. Just make sure to dress the salad right before serving to preserve the freshness of the ingredients.

This Sweet and Spicy Broccoli Salad is quite versatile; it works as an excellent side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. For a heartier option, you can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top can also elevate the dish, adding a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets, blanched
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup sunflower seeds

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, dried cranberries, red onion, and sunflower seeds.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. Adjust the level of spice according to your preference by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Ingredient Variations

While broccoli is the star of this dish, feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on what’s in season. Cauliflower, for instance, can be blanched similarly and would add a different texture while still keeping that satisfying crunch. If you want more color, try adding shredded carrots or bell peppers which not only look beautiful but also contribute additional vitamins and minerals.

For those who prefer a nut-free version, replace the sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds or omit them entirely. Alternatively, for a more protein-rich addition, you can toss in toasted and chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, which will provide an exciting crunch and depth of flavor. Just keep in mind the size of the nuts to ensure a balanced bite.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the dressing seems too tangy, you can balance it by adding a touch more honey or a sweet substitute like agave syrup. This will help round out the flavors and minimize the acidity from the vinegar. Furthermore, if your salad seems dry after tossing, adding an additional splash of vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil can restore moisture and enhance the overall taste.

Another common issue might be overly soggy broccoli if blanched for too long. Ensure you're only blanching the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes and then immediately plunging them into an ice bath. This technique helps maintain their vibrant green color and crunch. If you find yourself with softer broccoli, consider roasting it lightly to bring more caramelization and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare this salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the broccoli.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the salad might lose its crunch.

→ Can I substitute the honey in the dressing?

Yes, you can use maple syrup for a vegan option or adjust the sweetness to your liking with another sweetener.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to throw in your favorite nuts, seeds, or even other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.