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Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe with Bacon and Creamy Dressing

Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe with Bacon and Creamy Dressing


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe with Bacon and Creamy Dressing is a vibrant and delicious side dish that combines crisp broccoli florets, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a luscious creamy dressing with a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or quick meals, it offers a delightful crunch and rich flavors that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, bite-sized
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crisp and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Dry them thoroughly to ensure the dressing sticks well and to prevent sogginess.
  2. Cook and Crumble the Bacon: Fry bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces once cooled, preserving the smoky crunch.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy, achieving a balanced tangy and sweet flavor.
  4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the broccoli florets, red onion slices, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds or almonds. Pour the dressing over and mix until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add Bacon and Chill: Fold in the crumbled bacon just before serving or chilling to keep its crunch. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use fresh, crisp broccoli for the best texture; avoid limp or old florets.
  • Cook bacon slowly to achieve even crispness and richer flavor.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor absorption and freshness.
  • Adjust honey in the dressing to suit your desired level of sweetness.
  • Add bacon just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, creamy dressing salad, easy broccoli salad, side dish, gluten free salad