Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

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I’ve always been a fan of bold flavors, especially when it comes to vegetables. That’s why this Bang Bang Broccoli Salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen. It’s not your typical steamed or roasted side dish—this broccoli is vibrant, lightly crispy, and tossed in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce that’s downright addictive. Whether I’m serving it up for lunch or pairing it with a hearty dinner, it never fails to impress.

What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together. There’s minimal prep, and the payoff is huge. The broccoli soaks up all that flavor from the tangy sauce and crunchy topping, giving each bite a mix of heat, creaminess, and texture. I promise, even the broccoli skeptics in your life will be asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s fast, healthy-ish, and packed with punchy flavor. It’s great warm or cold, making it ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight side. Plus, the creamy spicy dressing makes broccoli genuinely exciting, and who doesn’t love a little heat with a hint of sweetness?

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What Kind of Broccoli Should I Use?

Fresh broccoli florets are the best choice for this Bang Bang Broccoli Salad. They hold their texture well when roasted or blanched and have a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the spicy-sweet sauce. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can work too—just make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent that slight crisp we’re after.

Try to cut the florets into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. I usually aim for bite-sized, which makes it perfect for scooping up the sauce in every mouthful.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you’re missing an ingredient or need to make it dietary-friendly, here are a few ideas:

• Broccoli: Swap with cauliflower for a fun twist, or use broccolini for a slightly milder taste.
• Bang Bang Sauce: If you’re out of mayo, try Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative. Sriracha can be subbed with chili garlic sauce or even gochujang for a Korean spin.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Use crushed nuts, toasted panko, or even roasted sesame seeds for crunch.
• Sweetener: Honey, agave, or even a tiny bit of maple syrup can be used in place of sugar if your sauce calls for sweetness.
• Oil: Any neutral oil will do, but sesame oil adds an extra layer of richness.

No matter how you tweak it, this salad keeps its bold personality.

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Ingredients for This Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Florets
The star of the dish. Fresh, crisp florets roast beautifully or can be blanched for a quick, tender crunch. They soak up all that creamy, spicy sauce while maintaining texture.

Olive Oil
Used for roasting or sautéing the broccoli, it helps achieve a golden edge and boosts flavor.

Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce. It brings richness and holds all the spicy and sweet elements together.

Sriracha
The source of heat in the bang bang sauce. A little goes a long way in adding that signature zing.

Sweet Chili Sauce
Balances the spice with sweetness and a slight tang. It also adds a glossy finish to the sauce.

Lime Juice
Brightens everything up. The acidity lifts the richness of the mayo and rounds out the heat.

Garlic Powder
Adds depth and a subtle punch to both the broccoli and sauce without overpowering the other flavors.

Panko or Breadcrumbs
Gives the final touch of crunch. Toasted until golden, it mimics a light crust and adds texture to every bite.

Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning both the broccoli and the sauce—never skip it!

Optional Garnishes
Chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts work beautifully as final flourishes.

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Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse and dry your broccoli florets thoroughly. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even roasting. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.

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Step 2: Roast Until Crispy

Spread the broccoli out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 18–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until edges are golden and crisp.

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Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the broccoli is roasting, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a bit of garlic powder in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your preference.

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Step 4: Toast the Breadcrumbs

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the panko or breadcrumbs until golden brown, stirring frequently. This takes just a few minutes—watch closely so they don’t burn.

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Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Once the broccoli is roasted and slightly cooled, drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top for crunch. Add optional garnishes like scallions or sesame seeds if you’d like.

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Step 6: Serve Warm or Chilled

You can serve this immediately while it’s warm and crispy, or chill it for a cold salad version. Either way, it’s loaded with flavor and ready to wow.

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How Long to Cook the Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

The cooking process is quick and straightforward:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Roast Time: 18–22 minutes at 425°F
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

If you’re using frozen broccoli, allow for extra drying time before roasting to prevent sogginess.

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Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

• Dry Your Broccoli Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure your broccoli is completely dry before roasting.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the florets in a single layer with space in between to allow them to roast, not steam.
• Adjust the Heat: Like it spicier? Add more sriracha. Prefer it milder? Increase the mayo or add a splash of honey.
• Toast Breadcrumbs Fresh: For that warm, nutty crunch, toast just before serving.
• Serve Sauce on the Side for Leftovers: If planning to store some for later, keep the sauce separate to avoid soggy broccoli.

These small details make a huge difference in texture and flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Wet Broccoli: This is the fastest way to end up with soggy, steamed broccoli instead of those crisp, caramelized edges we want. Pat it dry thoroughly after washing.
• Skipping the Flip: Halfway through roasting, flipping the broccoli ensures even browning on all sides. Don’t skip it!
• Overcrowding the Pan: Too many florets packed together will steam instead of roast. Use two pans if needed.
• Burning the Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs toast fast—keep them moving and remove them as soon as they turn golden.
• Overdressing: Drenching the broccoli in sauce while it’s hot can make it too soft. Toss gently or serve the sauce on the side if storing for later.

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What to Serve With Bang Bang Broccoli Salad?

Grilled Chicken Thighs

The creamy, spicy salad pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken for a balanced and protein-packed meal.

Crispy Tofu or Tempeh

For a plant-based option, serve it alongside crispy tofu or pan-fried tempeh to keep things hearty and vegan-friendly.

Sticky Rice or Jasmine Rice

This soft, neutral base helps soak up any extra bang bang sauce and complements the salad’s bold flavors.

Shrimp Skewers

Garlicky or chili-lime shrimp add a seafood twist and cook in just minutes.

Asian-Inspired Noodles

Cold soba or sesame noodles bring texture contrast and cool down the spice level a bit.

Lettuce Wraps

Scoop the broccoli into butter lettuce leaves with a bit of rice and sauce for a handheld, low-carb option.

Soft-Boiled Eggs

Add creamy eggs on the side or sliced over the top for richness and extra protein.

Kimchi or Pickled Veggies

A tangy, fermented side balances the creamy-spicy profile with acidity and crunch.

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Storage Instructions

Bang Bang Broccoli Salad stores well if handled right. For the best results:

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep Sauce Separate: If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the bang bang sauce separately to keep the broccoli from getting soggy.
• Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet or oven to bring back some of the crisp texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve crunch.
• Serve Cold for a Twist: This salad actually tastes great chilled too—perfect for lunchboxes or make-ahead meals.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~220
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Cholesterol: 5mg

These values may vary based on specific brands and quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Bang Bang Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the broccoli and prep the sauce in advance. Store them separately and combine just before serving to keep the texture fresh.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can be! Just use vegan mayo and check your sweet chili sauce for animal-free ingredients. It’s an easy swap and still tastes amazing.

Can I air-fry the broccoli instead of roasting?

Absolutely. Air frying at 400°F for 10–12 minutes yields crispy florets fast. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Of course. You can skip them or replace with crushed nuts or seeds for a crunchy topping that’s gluten-free or nutty in flavor.

Does it work with frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw and dry it thoroughly first. It won’t be as crispy as fresh, but still delicious.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

It has a medium heat level. You can adjust by increasing or decreasing the sriracha, or adding a touch of honey to mellow the spice.

What protein goes well with it?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even a fried egg work great. The salad is flexible enough to play sidekick or main.

Can I serve it cold?

Definitely. It tastes great chilled and makes a flavorful lunch salad straight from the fridge.

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Conclusion

Bang Bang Broccoli Salad brings the perfect storm of spicy, creamy, tangy, and crunchy—all in one bowl. Whether you roast it fresh for dinner or prep it ahead for quick lunches, it delivers every time. It’s the kind of dish that surprises you: bold enough to steal the spotlight, simple enough for everyday meals. And once you try that bang bang sauce on broccoli, you’ll be tempted to put it on everything.

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