Hey, Welcome to the Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad Recipe. Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad is a creamy, crunchy, sweet-and-savory side dish made with fresh broccoli, bacon, cheese, and a tangy dressing.
I’m really glad you’re here because this is one of those recipes I keep coming back to when I want something easy, familiar, and crowd-pleasing.
If you’ve ever ordered this at Ruby Tuesday and thought, “I wish I could make this at home,” you’re in the right place.
Let me walk you through it step by step so you can nail it on the first try.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Cuisine: American
Category: Side Dish
History and Origin
Ruby Tuesday’s broccoli salad became popular as part of the restaurant’s classic salad bar offerings in the United States.
Over time, its creamy texture and balanced sweet-salty flavor turned it into a fan-favorite side dish that people love recreating at home.
What does it taste like?
This broccoli salad is creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly crunchy. You get freshness from the broccoli, smokiness from the bacon, richness from the cheese, and a tangy-sweet dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
By the way, you can also try the Applebee’s 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making it:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4 cups |
| Mayonnaise | ¾ cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Bacon (cooked & crumbled) | 6 slices |
| Red onion (finely chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Equipments
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your recipe:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to make Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad
Step 1: Prepare the broccoli
I start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into small, bite-sized florets. This helps the dressing coat everything evenly.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, I whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the salad ingredients
In a large bowl, I add broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and red onion. I gently toss everything so it’s evenly mixed.
Step 4: Add the dressing
I pour the dressing over the salad and mix until every piece is well coated. You’ll see it instantly come together.
Step 5: Chill before serving
I usually cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step really helps the flavors blend, and trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Recipe Card
Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- I start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into small, bite-sized florets. This helps the dressing coat everything evenly.
- In a small bowl, I whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, I add broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and red onion. I gently toss everything so it’s evenly mixed.
- I pour the dressing over the salad and mix until every piece is well coated. You’ll see it instantly come together.
- I usually cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step really helps the flavors blend, and trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this broccoli salad alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or burgers. It also works great for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings when you want something make-ahead friendly.
Storage Tips
You can store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend giving it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Texture
I’ve learned that the secret to that classic Ruby Tuesday creaminess is balance. You want enough dressing to coat every bite without overpowering the broccoli, keeping the salad rich but not heavy.
How to Keep Broccoli Salad Crunchy
If crunch matters to you (it does to me), this step is key. Make sure the broccoli is completely dry after washing and cut into small florets so the dressing clings without softening it too much.
Easy Ingredient Swaps and Variations
One reason I love this recipe is how customizable it is. You can swap cheddar for Colby Jack, add sunflower seeds or raisins, or even use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Is Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad Healthy?
This salad is creamy and indulgent, but it still delivers nutrients from fresh broccoli. I like thinking of it as a balanced comfort side dish when enjoyed in reasonable portions.
Best Occasions to Serve This Broccoli Salad
This is one of those dishes I always rely on for potlucks, BBQs, and holiday gatherings. It’s familiar, crowd-pleasing, and easy to make ahead without stress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overdressing the salad or skipping the chill time can affect the final flavor and texture.
Trust me, letting it rest in the fridge makes everything taste more cohesive and restaurant-style.
Why This Salad Tastes Better After Chilling
I always recommend chilling this broccoli salad before serving because it gives the flavors time to blend.
The dressing thickens slightly, the broccoli absorbs the tangy sweetness, and every bite tastes more balanced.
How to Make This Recipe for a Crowd
If you’re feeding a larger group, this recipe scales up beautifully. I usually double the ingredients, mix everything in a large bowl, and chill it overnight so it’s ready to serve without any last-minute prep.
Conclusion
This Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad is one of those simple dishes that delivers big on flavor. If you’re looking for a reliable side dish that everyone will recognize and enjoy, this one never disappoints.
With these lines, we come to the end of the article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Ruby Tuesday broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 24 hours in advance, and it actually tastes better after chilling.
Is this broccoli salad served cold or warm?
This salad is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
I don’t recommend it, as frozen broccoli becomes too soft and watery for this salad.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or a mayo-yogurt blend for a lighter version.
How do I keep broccoli salad crunchy?
Make sure the broccoli is completely dry before mixing and don’t overdress it.
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