Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe

Oh, I can’t wait to tell you about this Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe — it’s become a staple at my family gatherings and weekend potlucks because it just sparkles with flavor and texture. This salad isn’t your everyday broccoli dish; the sweet raisins, crunchy sunflower kernels, and that creamy yet tangy dressing create this incredible harmony that’s so refreshing and satisfying at the same time.

What’s truly special about this Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a summer barbecue or just want a delicious, easy-to-make side for dinner, this recipe comes through every time. Plus, it’s one of those salads that you can whip up ahead of time and let the flavors mingle — trust me, that patience will pay off big time!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in the Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe plays a special role to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. When you’re shopping, look for fresh broccoli with firm florets and crisp stems—this little detail makes all the difference.

• Mayonnaise: This creamy base binds everything and adds richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• White Sugar: Just the right touch of sweetness to balance the tang from the vinegar and the bitterness of broccoli.
• White Vinegar: Adds a bright tang that keeps the salad lively and fresh-tasting.
• Fresh Broccoli: The star of the show, chopped bite-sized for easy eating and maximum crunch.
• Raisins: I love how they add juicy bursts of natural sweetness and a slightly chewy texture.
• Salted Sunflower Kernels: These bring a nutty flavor and extra crunch that pairs surprisingly well with the other salad elements.
• Cooked Crumbled Bacon: Oh, the smoky saltiness this adds just takes the salad to the next level—don’t skip it!
• Diced Red Onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and pops of color that brighten the bowl.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe sometimes depending on the season or who I’m cooking for — and you can totally do the same. It’s flexible enough to take on some fun personal touches without losing its charm.

• Variation: When I want a bit more protein, I toss in diced hard-boiled eggs or shredded cooked chicken, and it works beautifully.
• Make it vegan: Swap out mayo for a vegan mayo and use coconut bacon or smoked tempeh bits instead of the bacon to keep that smoky crunch.
• Seasonal twist: I sometimes add diced apples or dried cranberries in the fall for extra sweetness and color.
• Extra tang: A splash of lemon juice alongside the vinegar can brighten this salad even more if you like it zippy.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start by grabbing a large bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, and white vinegar until silky smooth. I often taste the dressing here just to make sure it strikes that balance of sweet and tangy for me—feel free to adjust slightly if you like it brighter or sweeter!

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies and Mix-Ins

Chop your fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces—you want it small enough for each bite but not too tiny to lose that satisfying crunch. Dice the red onion finely and crumble the cooked bacon. Toss these into the bowl with sunflower kernels and raisins. I usually like to taste the bacon beforehand to check its saltiness so I don’t overseason later.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

Add all the ingredients into the dressing bowl and mix everything very well — every floret and kernel should be coated deliciously. Now, this part is key: cover it tightly and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Trust me, giving the salad time lets the flavors meld and the broccoli soak up that wonderful dressing.

How to Serve Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a few extra sunflower seeds on top before serving for an eye-catching crunch. A little fresh minced parsley or chives also adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole plate, which I love.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs like a charm with grilled chicken, baked ham, or even your favorite burgers. I often serve it alongside corn on the cob and some crusty bread for a full picnic-style meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this salad in hollowed-out small melons or colorful bell peppers to add a festive touch. It instantly impresses guests and makes a fun centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and chill—you’ll find it keeps well for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen, but I recommend eating it quickly so the broccoli stays fresh and crisp.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe because the mayo dressing and fresh broccoli don’t hold up well—they turn watery and mushy, losing that delightful texture we aim for.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so I usually take it out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving rather than reheating. If needed, just give it a gentle stir to freshen it up before plating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Sunshine Broccoli Supreme Salad Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s not only a guaranteed crowd-pleaser but also really simple to prepare and customize. I hope you love making it as much as I do, whether it becomes your go-to side or the star at your next gathering. Go ahead, give it a whirl — I promise it’ll brighten up your menu and your day!

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