Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad

Name: Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I love making Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad because it offers a delightful contrast of flavors that truly brightens up any meal. The crunch of fresh broccoli combined with a tangy-sweet dressing makes for a refreshing side or light lunch. What’s even better is how quickly this salad comes together—it’s a perfect last-minute addition to a gathering or a picnic. I can whip up this colorful dish in under 30 minutes, and it always receives rave reviews. Plus, the dressing can be prepared ahead of time for even more convenience.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:35:27.690Z

While perfecting my Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad, I found that letting the broccoli sit in the dressing for a while amplifies the flavors. Not only does it enhance the taste, but it also makes the broccoli tender yet crunchy. This salad has become a staple in my home, especially during the warm months when fresh produce is abundant. The vibrant colors and varied textures are always a hit!

One of my favorite tweaks was adding a handful of roasted nuts for an extra crunch. It not only adds a different layer of flavor but also boosts the nutritional value significantly. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and you’re in for a treat!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Bright and refreshing contrast of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Highly customizable with your favorite ingredients

Understanding The Ingredients

The choice of fresh broccoli florets is essential for achieving the right texture in this Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad. Look for bright green florets that are firm to the touch, avoiding any that appear yellowing or wilting. The crunch of the broccoli will contrast beautifully with the vibrant cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper, adding both flavor and color to your dish. If fresh broccoli isn't available, you can use frozen florets, but give them a quick blanch to retain some crispness before using.

Cherry tomatoes provide a juicy sweetness that helps balance the tartness of the dressing. When selecting tomatoes, aim for plump ones that are vibrant in color. A key point to note is to halve the tomatoes to allow them to soak in the dressing's flavors. If you prefer, swap them with diced cucumbers or even shredded carrots for a different dimension; just keep in mind that each substitution will slightly alter the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting The Dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens in this salad. Combining apple cider vinegar, sugar, and olive oil creates a tangy-sweet emulsion that seamlessly coats every ingredient. Make sure to whisk the dressing vigorously until it becomes glossy and well-blended—this usually takes about 30 seconds. If you prefer a bolder flavor, consider adding an extra teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of garlic powder for added complexity.

The balance of sweet and sour can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you like it sweeter, increase the sugar slightly or incorporate a splash of honey. Conversely, for a more tangy kick, you can add an extra tablespoon of vinegar. I recommend tasting the dressing after whisking and adjusting the ingredients gradually to keep a harmonious balance.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start preparing the salad.

For the Salad

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to mix well before serving to distribute the dressing evenly.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick, delicious salad!

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat well.

Serve

Add the toasted almonds on top just before serving for that delightful crunch.

Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of soy sauce to the dressing.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great advantages of this salad is its flexibility for make-ahead preparations. You can prepare the broccoli and other vegetables the day before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, I recommend waiting to toss them with the dressing until just before serving to maintain their crunchiness and color.

The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in a jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before use, as the ingredients may separate during storage. This makes it an efficient choice for meal prep, ensuring you always have a quick and delightful side ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet and Sour Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully as a side dish for grilled proteins like chicken, steak, or fish. It also makes a delightful standalone lunch; consider adding some chickpeas or quinoa to turn it into a more substantial meal. The colorful ingredients not only create visual appeal but also invite different textures that your palate will appreciate.

For a festive twist, you can top the salad with crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chia seeds can also enhance the flavor while providing a nutritional boost. Feel free to experiment and make this salad your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Carrots, cucumber, or even cauliflower work wonderfully in this salad.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just note that the texture may change slightly.

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! The ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegans.