Broccoli salad is a delicious and nutritious dish. It combines crunchy broccoli with flavors from bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing. This salad is great for potlucks, gatherings, or as a side for dinner. It’s easy to make and loved by many.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making this broccoli salad is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s packed with nutrients. Broccoli is a superfood full of vitamins, and adding ingredients like bacon and cheese makes it even more enjoyable. Second, this recipe is quick to prepare and requires minimal cooking. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can please even those who might not normally enjoy vegetables.
How to Make Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, cheese, red onion, and sunflower seeds.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Best Broccoli Salad
A delicious and nutritious salad combining crunchy broccoli with bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, cheese, red onion, and sunflower seeds.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
For added crunch, toast the sunflower seeds before adding them. Use freshly cooked bacon for the best flavor. You can make this salad a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
How to Serve Broccoli Salad
To serve this salad, take it out of the fridge and give it a gentle toss. You can serve it in a large bowl or portion it into individual plates. It pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a festive buffet spread. Adding some extra sunflower seeds on top can make it look even more appealing.
How to Store Broccoli Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad will keep for about 3 days. However, if you notice the broccoli starting to wilt or the dressing becoming too watery, it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later.
Tips to Make Broccoli Salad
- For added crunch, toast the sunflower seeds before adding them to the salad.
- Use freshly cooked bacon for the best flavor, or try using turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like dried cranberries or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
If you want to change things up, you can add diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. Swap out the cheddar cheese for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just thaw and drain them before adding to the salad.
- Is this salad gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just check the labels on the mayonnaise and bacon to be sure they are gluten-free.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Conclusion
Best Broccoli Salad is an easy and tasty way to enjoy healthy greens. Packed with flavor and texture, it is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it at a family meal or a party, this salad will impress everyone. Enjoy this simple recipe, and feel free to customize it to your taste!
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