Broccoli Grape Salad Recipe

This post may include affiliate links. Thank you for your support.

This Creamy Broccoli Grape Salad will get rave reviews! Overflowing with fresh broccoli, juicy grapes, chicken and/or bacon, crunchy almonds, and a creamy, tangy dressing – there’s heavenly delicious flavor in every single bite! This broccoli salad with grapes only requires 9 ingredients, can be made in advance and it’s totally customizable! 

Continue to read on for simple tips on preparing the best broccoli grape salad! And, don’t miss the step-by-step photographs and recipe video showing you exactly how easy it is to prepare this broccoli side dish at home!

Update: This salad with grapes recipe was originally published in April 2020. I made updates to the post below to include more information about this delicious summer staple. 

About this broccoli salad with grapes 

Say hello to your new favorite type of green salad! Broccoli may be humble and unassuming, but this salad will knock your socks off at first taste! It’s light and fresh, yet creamy and rich, and overflowing with color, texture and flavor!! But, fair warning, it’s seriously delicious too!

This flavorful raw broccoli salad is loaded with crisp fresh broccoli, juicy red grapes, tender diced chicken (or salty, crumbled bacon), toasted crunchy almonds, pungent red onions and delicate scallions. Tossed with a creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, heavenly delicious dressing, it’s a broccoli salad you will actually want to eat!!

This salad with grapes is totally adaptable and can easily be customized to include what you have on hand or whatever ingredients you and your family love! It’s insanely easy to make, only requires 9 ingredients and can be prepared in advance! Plus, this broccoli salad travels well and easily feeds a crowd, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, summer parties and backyard barbecues! Whatever the situation may be, this easy broccoli grape salad fits the bill!

Why you will love this recipe

• SO much flavor: This broccoli grape salad is bursting with both delicious flavor and texture! It’s creamy and rich, yet light and tangy in taste; and crisp and crunchy in texture!
• Just 9 easy to find ingredients: This salad with grapes uses simple ingredients to create a broccoli salad that is truly delicious!
• Incredibly easy to make: It couldn’t be any easier to prepare this broccoli recipe – simply toss together a few ingredients, mix up the dressing, toss it all together and serve!
• Fast recipe: This fresh broccoli salad with bacon is ready in 10 minutes or less!
• Easy to customize: This broccoli and grape recipe is totally flexible and so easy to customize with your favorite tasty additions!
• Make ahead: You can easily prepare this salad ahead of time! In fact, making it ahead allows dressing to marry and meld with the salad, so I actually recommend making it in advance!
• Crowd pleaser: Everyone absolutely loves this grape broccoli salad! Prepare it, serve it at your next potluck, picnic or backyard barbecue and get ready to instantly impress!

What’s in grape broccoli salad?

This broccoli salad with grapes recipe is bursting with delicious flavor and the entire recipe requires just 9 simple ingredients! However, this salad is totally flexible and you can tweak any of the ingredients to your personal taste or dietary needs!

• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star of this salad. You will need to cut the broccoli into bite-size florets foe easy eating.
• Grapes: I recommend red, seedless grapes for this salad recipe. If your grapes are large be sure to cut them in half.
• Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken you like in this recipe – just make sure you either shred or cut the chicken pieces roughly the same size as your broccoli florets!
  • Substitution: Alternatively, you can substitute cooked and crumbled bacon! Or, try using both chicken and bacon for the ultimate broccoli salad!
• Green Onion: Also known as scallions, green onions are mild and delicate in flavor. Green onions are bright white at the bottom (stalk) with dark green tops. You will only need the dark green parts for this recipe.
• Almonds: Sliced and toasted almonds provide a delicious salty crunch! There are instructions for two different easy ways to toast almonds in the notes section of the recipe below!
• Red Onion: Red onions are relatively mild in flavor. They provide a bright flavor and beautiful color to the salad!
  • Tip: If you don’t like the taste of raw onion, you can soak the diced onion in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes. Soaking the onion will mellow its flavor. Just make sure you drain them before proceeding with the recipe.

If broccoli is on sale at the store, grab and extra head and put it to good use in these delicious recipes: Broccoli Breakfast Casserole, Creamy Broccoli Pasta, and Broccoli Dip with Bacon.

Salad dressing

Broccoli grape salad is traditionally served with a tangy, creamy, mayonnaise-based dressing. (Please see above for ingredient descriptions.)

This broccoli salad dressing is made with just 4 simple ingredients – mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar and Dijon mustard. However, once the ingredients are combined, they transform into the most delicious, creamy, complex dressing with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor! It tastes magically delicious with this grape salad!

• Mayonnaise: Make sure you use a high-quality mayonnaise for this dressing. The mayonnaise gives the dressing it’s delicious creamy taste!
  • Substitution: If you are looking for a healthy swap, replace the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. Or if you prefer a thinner dressing, swap some of the mayonnaise for buttermilk.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar provides a hint of sweetness!
  • Substitution: You can swap out the sugar for honey or agave if you prefer a natural or vegan sweetener.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The tart vinegar balances out the creamy, sweet flavor.
  • Substitution: You can use white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar instead of ACV. Or, you can use plain white (distilled) vinegar mixed with a splash of lemon juice.
• Dijon Mustard: The touch of Dijon mustard adds a beautiful complex flavor to the dressing.
• Honey Mustard Dressing: Alternatively, you can substitute this tangy homemade broccoli dressing for store-bought or homemade creamy honey mustard dressing!

Recipe variations

This broccoli salad is flexible so you can easily customize the ingredient list. However, please note, when adding additional ingredients, you may want to consider increasing the amount of dressing.

• Protein: Are you looking to make this salad protein-rich? Try adding in turkey, bacon or hard-boiled eggs! (In the recipe video below I use a combination of chicken and bacon!)
• Cheese: Let’s face it – cheese is always a welcome addition! I love to add cubes of cheddar, goat cheese crumbles, grated parmesan or grated pecorino!
• Vegetables: Looking for a healthy way to add bulk to this salad? Try tossing in your favorite vegetables, just be sure to finely dice, thinly slice or halve them first if they are larger! Celery, bell peppers, radishes, sweet peas and cherry tomatoes are all wonderful additions!
• Small Pasta: You can easily transform this recipe into broccoli pasta salad by adding in  your favorite pasta of choice – just make sure you cook the pasta to al dente and allow it to cool completely before adding it to the salad! Tip: Small shapes such as mini shells, macaroni or orecchiette work best!
• Seeds: I love to add a bit of salty crunch to this salad by adding whatever seeds I have on hand! Sunflower seeds, pepitas (pumpkin seeds) and poppy all work great! Tip: Add the seeds to your salad just before serving so they retain their crunch!
• Nuts: You can substitute the almonds for your favorite nut, or simply add another variety for even more crunch! Cashews, pecans and pine nuts are all delicious! Tip: For the best flavor, make sure you toast your nuts! For the best texture, wait to add the nuts until just before serving so they retain their crunch!
• Fruit: My favorite additions are avocado, apples and blueberries. If you are using a larger fruit, such as an apple, make sure you chop it into small pieces before adding it to the salad!
• Dried Fruit: Dried fruits, such as raisins and cranberries are a wonderful way to add a touch of chewy texture along with a bit of tart flavor!

FAQs: frequently asked questions

How to select the best broccoli for salad with grapes?

Since the bulk of this salad is made up of fresh broccoli, it’s imperative you select the best-looking head or crown at the store!

What to look for when buying broccoli for salads

• Uniform color:  Look for a head of broccoli that has a uniform green color.
• No discoloration:  Do not select broccoli that has any large yellow or brown spots.
• Firm to the touch:  The broccoli stem should feel firm to the touch while the crown should be tight. Likewise, the florets should feel stiff. Broccoli that appears or feels soft and limp is old and not at its peak freshness.
• Storage:  Once you have selected the perfect head, store broccoli in the crisper drawer in the refrigerator. Fresh broccoli will keep for at least a week if properly stored.

How to cut broccoli into florets?

This salad with grapes recipe uses fresh heads or crowns of broccoli. However, the broccoli needs to be broken down into easy-to-eat, small florets.

Broccoli florets are the flowery part of the broccoli head. If you look at a head of broccoli as a tiny tree, the florets are the small branches and leaves coming off of the thick, green stem.

While tackling a whole head of broccoli to cut evenly shaped florets can seem like a daunting task, it really is quite easy! This step by step tutorial on how to cut broccoli into florets will walk you through the process if you need help.

Pro-tip:  Do not discard the broccoli stems! Store them in a zip-closure bag in the refrigerator. Use them to make cream of broccoli soup or broccoli pesto! Shred them and add them to salads and slaws! Or, add them to stir-fries!

Frozen or cooked broccoli for grape broccoli salad?

This broccoli and grape recipe tastes best with fresh broccoli. Traditionally, raw broccoli is used in salads; however, the broccoli doesn’t taste completely raw since it is finely chopped and tossed with a creamy dressing.

Nonetheless, you can blanch the broccoli florets if desired! Simply add the florets to a pot of boiling, lightly salted water and cook for 1 minute. Drain and transfer the broccoli to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the cooled broccoli well before using it in the recipe.

I do not recommend using frozen broccoli as the florets will cause the salad to be too wet and unappetizing.

How much fresh broccoli salad per person?

If you are wanting to make this simple broccoli salad for a large party or family gathering, a general guideline to follow is about 4 ounces of broccoli salad per person.

However, this is just a guideline and not a rule. Keep in mind the time of day, other types of food and the people you are serving. You should adjust the amount according to your specific needs!

How long can creamy salad with grapes sit out?

Broccoli salad should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours maximum! If you are serving creamy salad with bacon at an outdoor function, such as a picnic or barbecue, consider keeping the salad on ice or in a cooler until ready to serve and in the shade while serving.

How to make broccoli grape salad

Broccoli grape salad is incredibly easy to make! This recipe only requires 9 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of preparation!

1. Make the dressing:  In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar and Dijon. Season to taste with ½ teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of pepper. Whisk well. Set aside.
2. Make the salad:  In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, grapes, chicken, green onions, almonds, red onions and any optional additions if using. Toss well to combine.
3. Add dressing:  Pour dressing (to taste) over the broccoli floret salad. Toss or stir well.
4. Chill:  For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. To serve:  Toss or stir broccoli salad well before serving. Taste and adjust with more dressing or salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy!

Step by step photos: making this recipe at home

(Scroll down for the detailed measurements and instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.)

Serving suggestions

This broccoli and grape salad is incredibly multifaceted and you can use it numerous ways!!

You can serve this salad the traditional way, as an easy vegetable side dish or a light vegetarian entree.! Or, you can use broccoli salad as a filling for wraps, sandwiches, burritos and quesadillas. And, you can toss it with cooked, cooled pasta and transformed into a delicious pasta salad.

One broccoli salad recipe, limitless serving opportunities!

What goes with broccoli salads?

This grape broccoli salad is extremely versatile! It tastes absolutely delicious paired , making it the perfect side for potlucks, picnics, summer barbecues and even weeknight dinners!

This crisp, colorful and creamy broccoli salad is extremely versatile (think of it as a recipe of all trades!). It pairs wonderfully with wide variety of dishes, making it the perfect side for your next picnic, potluck or summer barbecue! Plus, it makes a fabulous grab-and-go lunch or easy weeknight dinner!

Our favorite summer dinner includes this grape and broccoli with bacon salad and The Best Coleslaw, along with Black Bean Burgers (for her) and Barbecue Pulled Pork (for him)!

13 delicious dishes to serve with broccoli bacon grape salad

Entree pairing options

• Grilled Meats: Anything from steaks and beef kebabs to pork chops and sausages!
• Smoked Meats: Smoked ribs, chicken, pork, brisket or even meatloaf!
• Pulled Meats: Pulled Pork or Pulled Chicken.
• Grilled Chicken: Chicken breasts, thighs, kebabs, burgers and even chicken sausages!
• Grilled Fish and Seafood: Salmon, scallops, shrimp and any type of white fish.
• Burgers and Sandwiches:  Plain burgers, cheeseburgers, artisan sandwiches, hotdogs, paninis and grilled cheese.

Side dishes to serve alongside 

• Soups: Soup and salad is a great pairing! Anything from lighter summer soups such as gazpacho to heavier corn chowder is delicious!
• Salads: Throw a salad smorgasbord and pair it with roasted cauliflower salad, sub salads, BLT salad, or cream cheese chicken salad.
• Fresh Fruit: Watermelon, berries, cantaloupe, honeydew, kiwi and fruit salads.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled, roasted or steamed vegetables. Any fresh vegetable you love works well with salads!
• Corn: Juicy corn pairs terrifically with this crunchy broccoli side. Especially grilled corn cobs and succotash.
• Beans: Baked bean recipes, marinated beans and bean salads.
• Potato Salads: Creamy potato salads, no mayo potato salads, and faux potato salad made with cauliflower!
• Pasta Salads: Light, cold pasta salads are the perfect accompaniment! We love pairing this salad with pea and bacon pasta salad or Greek orzo salad.

Storing leftovers

Leftover broccoli salad should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Properly stored, it will keep for up to 3 to 4 days.

Can I make broccoli salad with grapes in advance?

Absolutely! This salad with broccoli and chicken actually tastes best if made a few hours, or up to overnight in advance so the flavors have a chance to develop and merry.

You can make the salad up to several days ahead. However, if making it more than 8 hours in advance, I recommend storing the raw salad and the creamy mayo dressing in separate airtight containers. Then, toss everything together at least an hour before serving.

Can you freeze salad with grapes?

Due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, as well as the grapes and the fresh ingredients, this salad with broccoli does not freeze well. You should prepare and enjoy the salad within the timeframes listed above!

Packed with flavor, texture and tons of yummy goodies, this grape salad will make a broccoli lover out of even the pickiest of eaters!

Until next week, friends, cheers! To bodacious broccoli!

Cheyanne

Craving MORE? For more tasty recipe inspiration, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. You can also get all of my newest content delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for my email newsletter.

More easy broccoli side dish recipes!

If you love this creamy salad with broccoli, try one of these delicious recipes for broccoli next:

• Rice Broccoli Salad (Mediterranean salad with broccoli rice.)
• Broccoli Tots (Healthy with a crispy quinoa coating.)

©No Spoon Necessary. All images and content are under copyright protection. Please do not use any images without prior permission. Please do not publish this recipe without prior consent. If you want to reference this recipe, please do so by linking directly to this post.