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This broccoli salad transforms the humble green vegetable into a crowd-pleasing side dish bursting with flavors and textures. The combination of crunchy broccoli, creamy dressing, and savory bacon creates a perfectly balanced salad that disappears quickly at potlucks and family gatherings.
I first made this salad for a neighborhood barbecue when I needed something that would stand up to the summer heat. It was the first empty dish of the evening, and now I'm required to bring it to every gathering!
Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets: Provide the perfect crunchy base and loads of nutrition
- Cherry tomatoes: Add bright pops of color and juicy sweetness
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings richness and protein to the dish
- Raisins: Contribute a surprising sweetness that balances the savory elements
- Red onions: Deliver a mild bite that enhances the overall flavor profile
- Bacon: Adds smoky, salty notes that make this salad irresistible
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy dressing base
- White sugar: Balances the tanginess of the dressing
- White vinegar: Provides acidity that cuts through the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the Salad Ingredients:
- Place freshly chopped broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl, ensuring pieces are bite-sized for the perfect texture. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cheddar cheese, plump raisins, finely chopped red onions, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss these ingredients together until evenly distributed throughout the bowl, creating a colorful base for your salad.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar. Whisk vigorously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and uniform. This sweet and tangy dressing will coat the broccoli and other ingredients perfectly, bringing all the flavors together.
- Mix Dressing with Salad:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture, ensuring it drizzles across all areas of the bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold the ingredients together with a gentle touch, coating each piece with dressing while maintaining the integrity of the individual components.
- Chill the Salad:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though two to four hours yields even better results. This crucial chilling period allows the broccoli to slightly soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully, transforming good ingredients into a cohesive, exceptional salad.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chilled salad from the refrigerator and give it a final gentle stir before transferring to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional bacon crumbles if desired for visual appeal and extra flavor.
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The bacon in this recipe is my secret weapon. I always cook a few extra slices because mysteriously, some tend to disappear before making it into the salad. My husband claims no knowledge of this phenomenon despite the telltale crumbs on his shirt.
Healthier Swaps
This lightened version of Paula Deens classic broccoli salad maintains all the flavor while cutting back on some of the heavier elements. For an even healthier version, try using Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise, which adds protein while reducing fat. Turkey bacon works beautifully as a substitute for traditional bacon, and you can reduce the sugar by half without sacrificing too much sweetness, especially if your raisins are particularly sweet.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this broccoli salad lies in its adaptability. Consider adding sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch and nutritional value. Dried cranberries can replace raisins for a more tart flavor profile. For those who enjoy heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the dressing creates a subtle warmth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements. Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack for spice or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Storage Tips
This salad keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue to develop over time, making it an excellent make-ahead option. If you plan to prepare this salad far in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until a few hours before serving to maintain maximum crispness in the broccoli. For best results, give the salad a quick stir before serving leftover portions to redistribute the dressing.
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This broccoli salad is the perfect blend of flavors and is sure to become a favorite at every gathering. Don't be surprised if you're asked to share the recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese in this salad?
Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with other varieties like feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
- → What can I use as a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and olive oil for a lighter dressing option.
- → Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
Certainly! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian-friendly bacon crumbles or toasted nuts for added crunch.
- → Can I add extra ingredients to this salad?
Yes, you can enhance the salad with ingredients like sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, or even avocado slices for added flavor and texture.
- → How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh for up to three days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.