introduction
This simple broccoli salad mixes fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy sweet dressing. It is easy to make and good for summer meals or potlucks. If you like creamy dressings, you may also enjoy the Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce recipe for another easy creamy option.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is quick, tasty, and needs little cooking. The salad is crunchy, slightly sweet, and has salty bacon. It works as a side dish or light main dish. Kids and adults both like it.
how to make Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Make the salad in a few steps. First mix the raw vegetables and bacon. Then whisk the dressing and pour it over. Chill the salad so the flavors blend. 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.
how to serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon
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 store Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Put the salad in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad is best eaten within 24–48 hours for crunch. Stir before serving. Do not freeze.
tips to make Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Cut broccoli into small, bite-size florets for easy eating.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towel and chop.
- Taste the dressing and add salt or sugar a little at a time.
- Let the salad chill at least 30 minutes so the dressing softens the broccoli slightly.
variation (if any)
- Add nuts like slivered almonds or chopped walnuts for more crunch.
- Swap raisins for dried cranberries for a tart note.
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with mayo to cut some fat.
- Add shredded cheddar for a richer salad.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Fresh is best for crunch. If you use frozen, thaw and drain well, then pat dry to avoid a watery salad.
Q: How can I make it lighter?
A: Replace half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or use light mayo.
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Mix ingredients and keep dressing separate. Toss and chill about 30 minutes before serving.
Q: Is this salad safe to leave out at a picnic?
A: Keep it chilled. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than two hours.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Leave out the bacon and add roasted chickpeas or smoked tofu for a vegetarian option.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing & Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian (if bacon is omitted)
Description
A simple and tasty broccoli salad mixed with crispy bacon and a creamy dressing, perfect for summer meals and potlucks.
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
- Combine the broccoli, bacon, red onion, shredded carrots, and raisins in a large mixing bowl.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Serve cold and garnish with extra bacon or whole broccoli florets. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg