This easy broccoli salad is packed with fresh flavors, crispy bacon, and delicious cheese. It’s crunchy, creamy, and a great side dish for any meal!
Who doesn’t love bacon in a salad? I could eat this every day and not get bored! Just mix the ingredients, and you’ve got a tasty dish ready in no time.
This salad is a hit at potlucks or family gatherings. Plus, it’s so simple to make, you can whip it up while the kids are fighting over their toys! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for crunchiness. If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen broccoli florets; just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Bacon: Crisp, crumbled bacon adds great flavor. For a healthier option, you might use turkey bacon or even skip it altogether for a vegetarian salad.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but I love the tanginess of feta cheese too. If you’re dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness. If you prefer something less sweet, toss in chopped apples or even diced bell peppers for a crunchy touch.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo brings creaminess; however, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a lighter dressing. You could mix half mayo and half yogurt for a nice balance!
How Do I Get My Broccoli Perfectly Crisp?
To keep your broccoli crunchy, follow these easy steps for preparation. Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Then, pat them dry. Moisture can lead to sogginess when combined with the dressing!
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Frozen broccoli can work if it’s thawed and well-drained.
- After cutting, let the florets sit for a few minutes to ensure any excess moisture evaporates.
- If you want an extra crunch, consider blanching the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes and then plunging it into ice water. This softens the color while keeping the crunch!
Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe With Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or crumbled feta cheese)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll want to chill it for at least 1 hour to let the flavors come together. In total, you can have this dish ready in under 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets and make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel. This will keep your salad from getting soggy!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble it once it’s cool.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed and smooth.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli florets, chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds until evenly distributed.
5. Add the Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This lets all the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if needed!
Enjoy your crunchy, creamy, and flavorful broccoli salad with bacon and cheese! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. Pat dry before adding it to the salad to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Alternatively, a vegan mayonnaise or a homemade vinaigrette can work well for a different flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftover Broccoli Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure the dressing is well-distributed.
