Name: Bang Bang Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1⁄3 cup mayonnaise; 1⁄4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons sliced green onions; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

If you’re searching for a salad that breaks away from the usual leafy green routine, Bang Bang Broccoli Salad is about to become your new favorite. This bold and flavor-packed dish combines the crispy crunch of roasted broccoli with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and totally crave-worthy. Whether you serve it as a standout side or the main event for lunch, it’s guaranteed to turn heads at your table.

This salad brings that perfect balance of savory and spicy with just enough sweetness to round everything out. The broccoli is roasted until golden and caramelized, which makes it irresistibly nutty. Tossed in a sauce inspired by the classic bang bang shrimp, this recipe transforms humble broccoli into something special you’ll actually get excited about eating.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

Bang Bang Broccoli Salad is as fun to make as it is to eat. The recipe is incredibly easy, budget-friendly, and surprisingly satisfying. It’s a meatless dish that still delivers plenty of bold flavor and texture. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or bringing along to a potluck where you want to steal the spotlight.

It’s also super customizable. You can throw in red cabbage, shredded carrots, or even chopped nuts for an added twist. And thanks to the oven-roasted broccoli, you get a naturally smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

What Kind of Sauce Goes on Bang Bang Broccoli Salad?

The magic lies in the bang bang sauce. Typically made with mayo, sweet chili sauce, a splash of sriracha, and a touch of honey or sugar, this sauce is the ultimate upgrade to anything it touches. It’s creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all at once—kind of like a flavor explosion in your mouth. For this salad, the sauce acts like a dressing and clings beautifully to every floret.

You can absolutely adjust the heat level depending on your preference. Like it mild? Dial down the sriracha. Want a serious kick? Add a few drops of hot sauce or crushed chili flakes.

Ingredients for the Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

The ingredients in this salad are straightforward but chosen with purpose to create maximum flavor and crunch.

Broccoli
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha
Honey
Apple cider vinegar
Green onions
Toasted sesame seeds

You’ll need broccoli as the star of the show, and we roast it to bring out its natural sweetness. A bit of olive oil helps crisp it up in the oven, while salt and black pepper enhance the flavor. For the dressing, you’ll mix mayonnaise with sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to make that signature bang bang blend. A splash of apple cider vinegar keeps the sauce balanced and punchy. Finish the dish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish and crunch.

How To Make the Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown around the edges.

Step 2: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

While the broccoli roasts, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking—add more heat or sweetness depending on preference.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Once the broccoli is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then toss it in a large bowl with the bang bang sauce until everything is coated evenly. Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store Bang Bang Broccoli Salad

This recipe makes enough to feed about 4 people as a side dish or 2 if you’re serving it as a main course. It’s a great choice for casual dinners, lunchboxes, or buffet-style spreads. You can serve it warm straight out of the oven or let it cool and enjoy it as a chilled salad.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the broccoli will soften over time, but the flavors get even deeper the next day. If you’d like to reheat it, a quick toss in a skillet does the trick.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Broccoli Salad?

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

The savory, sticky-sweet glaze of grilled teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy spice of bang bang broccoli.

Coconut Jasmine Rice

This light, fragrant rice helps mellow out the heat and adds a tropical flair to your meal.

Pan-Seared Tofu

A great vegan partner that also carries that crispy edge, pan-seared tofu is another texture-rich addition.

Garlic Noodles

Tossed in butter and garlic, these noodles bring a rich umami element that complements the tangy sauce.

Asian Slaw

For even more crunch and color, serve your salad with a fresh cabbage-based slaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette.

Crispy Baked Tofu Bites

Perfect for dunking into extra bang bang sauce or serving alongside the salad for protein-packed crunch.

Seared Shrimp

Juicy shrimp seasoned with garlic and paprika makes a stunning contrast to the crispy broccoli.

Mango Avocado Salsa

If you want to cool things down, this sweet and creamy salsa offers a fresh bite with every spoonful.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re into bold, fresh flavors, you’ll love diving into these other unique dishes:

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it light? Did you add any extra toppings?

I always enjoy hearing how you make these recipes your own. And if you have questions, ask away — we’re all here to cook and learn together.

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