This easy broccoli salad is a colorful mix of fresh broccoli, crunchy bacon, and yummy cheese. The creamy dressing brings all the flavors together, making it hard to resist!
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! Just chop, mix, and enjoy. Whenever I make this, my family can’t get enough of it. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal! 🥦🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this salad. They add a crunchy texture and bright color. If you can’t find fresh broccoli, frozen will do, but it may not be as crunchy.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and salty flavor. You can substitute turkey bacon for a healthier option or even use cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Red Onion: Red onion provides a nice sharpness. If you want something milder, you could use green onions or leave it out altogether.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a lovely crunch. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) can be used instead for a different nutty flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Best Dressing?
The dressing is key to bringing the salad together! To make it creamy and balanced, follow these steps:
- Start with mayonnaise as your base. You can also use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Add apple cider vinegar for tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice works too.
- Incorporate honey for a hint of sweetness. Maple syrup is a great substitute for a vegan option.
- Mix well until it’s creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for flavor.
Easy Broccoli Salad with Crunchy Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You will then need to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. So, the total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick side dish or potluck treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Let it sizzle until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, move the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Once it’s cool enough to handle, crumble the bacon into small pieces. This will add a delightful crunch to your salad!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, the finely chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and the crumbled bacon. It’s a beautiful mix of colors and textures!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing is going to tie all your ingredients together perfectly!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss everything together so that all ingredients are nicely coated. Be careful not to mash the broccoli; you want to keep that crunch!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This rest time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled as a delicious, healthy side dish!
Enjoy your delightful and crunchy broccoli salad at your next meal or gathering! 🌟🥦🥓
FAQ for Easy Broccoli Salad with Crunchy Bacon
Can I Use Different Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sunflower seeds, feel free to substitute with pumpkin seeds, chopped walnuts, or even slivered almonds. Each will add a unique flavor and crunch to the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
You can store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the broccoli may become a bit softer as it sits.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is great for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the ingredients.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise. You can also try mixing sour cream with a bit of lemon juice for a tangy twist!
