Description
Bang Bang Broccoli Salad is a warm, crunchy, and flavor-packed vegetable side that’s just as bold as it is comforting. With crisp-tender broccoli, a creamy spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, and a golden garlic-panko topping, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. I love making it with fresh broccoli, vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, and just a touch of maple syrup — it’s a simple recipe that delivers restaurant-style flavor at home. This dish also goes by “spicy broccoli crunch salad” or “crispy bang bang veg.” I’ve tested it with both plant-based and classic versions, and both work beautifully. As a standout in the vegetable side category, Bang Bang Broccoli Salad wins for its versatility, addictive texture, and how quickly it disappears at the table. It’s a must-have in your weeknight lineup, especially when you’re craving something fun, familiar, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
2 heads broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
1 teaspoon salt, for blanching water
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt, for seasoning breadcrumbs
1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Optional: chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes until just tender.
3. Transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve color.
4. Drain broccoli and let air-dry on a clean towel.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, toast panko breadcrumbs until golden brown, stirring frequently.
6. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt to the breadcrumbs. Stir well and set aside.
7. In a bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, and rice vinegar until smooth.
8. Place dry broccoli in a wide serving bowl.
9. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the broccoli and fold gently to coat.
10. Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumb mixture.
11. Garnish with scallions or sesame seeds, if desired.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy.
Notes
Make sure the broccoli is fully dry before adding sauce to help it cling better.
Toast the breadcrumbs just until golden — they can burn quickly.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bang bang broccoli, spicy broccoli salad, vegan side dish