why make this recipe
This salad is quick, fresh, and full of flavor. It mixes crunchy broccoli with salty bacon and a simple creamy dressing. It needs little prep and works for weeknights, potlucks, or picnics.
introduction
Broccoli Salad with Bacon is an easy side that most people like. It has crisp broccoli, savory bacon, and a mild sweet dressing. If you like bacon with vegetables, you may also enjoy this Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe.
how to make Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Chop the broccoli into bite-size florets.
- Cook and chop the bacon. Let it cool.
- Combine broccoli, bacon, red onion, carrots, and raisins in a large bowl.
- Whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mix and toss until coated.
- Chill at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, red onion, shredded carrots, and raisins. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve the salad cold. Use a large bowl or small bowls for guests. It goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread. Garnish with extra bacon or a few whole broccoli florets if you like.
how to serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Serve cold from the fridge. Use a big bowl for a group or small bowls for guests. This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. Add extra bacon or whole broccoli florets on top for a nicer look.
how to store Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for 3 to 4 days. If the dressing thickens, stir before serving. Do not freeze the salad; the texture will change.
tips to make Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Cut broccoli into small, even florets for easy eating.
- Cook bacon until crisp so it stays crunchy in the salad.
- Chill at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
- Taste the dressing and add a bit more vinegar or sugar if you want more tang or sweetness.
- Drain any excess liquid from the broccoli if it looks wet before dressing.
variation (if any)
- Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apples for a fresh note.
- Use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo to make the dressing lighter.
- Add toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for extra crunch.
- Mix in shredded cheddar for a richer salad.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Fresh is best. If you use frozen, thaw and drain well so the salad does not get soggy.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill. Add a few extra bacon pieces just before serving.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise to keep it dairy-free.
Q: Can I omit the sugar?
A: Yes. Sugar balances the vinegar, but you can leave it out or use a small amount of honey if you prefer.
Q: How do I keep the bacon crunchy?
A: Cook bacon until very crisp and drain on paper towels. Add some extra pieces on top just before serving.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and flavorful salad mixing crunchy broccoli with salty bacon and a creamy dressing, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli into bite-size florets.
- Cook and chop the bacon. Let it cool.
- Combine broccoli, bacon, red onion, carrots, and raisins in a large bowl.
- Whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mix and toss until coated.
- Chill at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Notes
For extra crunch, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or nuts. This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
