Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe! This dish is filled with crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes of total time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The mix of bacon, cheese, and cranberries creates an irresistible taste that keeps guests coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature—this salad adapts to any occasion.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and seeds, it offers a healthy twist without compromising on taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to five days.
Tools and Preparation
To make this scrumptious Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (for bacon)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of broccoli into small florets.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps combine the dressing ingredients smoothly for better flavor distribution.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 10-11 strips bacon (cooked)
– 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
– 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
– 1 lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by making the bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven. It’s so much easier, and there’s no splatter.
Cook 10-11 slices of bacon until crispy, then set aside on paper towels to cool.
Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the bacon cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing.
In a large bowl, add 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR Mayonnaise.
Add zest from 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
Add ingredients for the salad to the bowl with the dressing.
Begin by chopping your broccoli using a chef’s knife into small florets.
Feel free to include chopped stems if you prefer.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add all broccoli to the large bowl along with:
1 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chopped red onion
Add most of the bacon while reserving some for garnish later.
Step 5: Mix It Together
Stir everything together until well combined.
This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. If you choose to chill it first, let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered in the fridge! This salad will keep fresh for about five days.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Serving Broccoli Salad with Bacon is all about presentation and pairing it with the right dishes. This salad is versatile and can fit into many occasions, from casual barbecues to formal events. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork for a hearty meal. The crispy bacon complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
In a Buffet Style
- Serve in a large bowl at gatherings or potlucks. Guests can help themselves, making it easy to enjoy.
Garnished with Extras
- Top the salad with additional bacon pieces or sunflower seeds just before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Chilled for Summer Events
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. It makes for a refreshing side on hot days.
With Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for added color and freshness. This step enhances the overall taste and appearance of the salad.
How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
To ensure your Broccoli Salad with Bacon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh broccoli – Fresh broccoli yields better flavor and texture than frozen.
- Crisp bacon – Bake your bacon in the oven until it’s crispy. This method reduces mess and gives you perfectly cooked slices.
- Adjust dressing – Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad; tweak ingredients like lemon juice or sugar for desired tanginess.
- Mix ingredients gently – When combining the salad ingredients, use a gentle hand to avoid bruising the broccoli.
- Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill helps marry the flavors together, making it taste even better when served.
- Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or even fruits like apple slices for a twist on this classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Broccoli Salad with Bacon pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great side options:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – These provide a protein option that is easy to eat and pairs well with salads.
- Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a hearty balance alongside your salad.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the salad.
- Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread offers comforting carbs that guests will love alongside their salad.
- Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad can enhance your meal while adding more texture and flavor variety.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit medley adds brightness and is perfect for summer gatherings.
- Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides another crunchy element that complements the Broccoli Salad well.
- Caprese Skewers – These skewers offer a fresh Italian twist that balances out richer dishes beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the bacon prep: Many people overlook cooking the bacon properly. Bake it for even cooking and less mess.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm flavors. Start with half and add more as needed to taste.
- Ignoring broccoli size: Cutting broccoli into large pieces makes for awkward bites. Aim for small, uniform florets for easy eating.
- Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately can miss out on flavor development. Allow the salad to chill for at least 20 minutes.
- Using stale ingredients: Ensure your nuts, seeds, and cheese are fresh. Stale components can negatively impact taste and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe in an airtight container.
- It will last about 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and crunchy ingredients.
- If necessary, separate components before freezing and combine after thawing.
Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use low heat in a skillet; stir frequently to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for bacon in this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe?
You can use turkey bacon or smoked tofu for a vegetarian option that still adds flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making a day ahead. Just wait to add the bacon until shortly before serving.
How do I make this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, and reduce sugar for a lighter version.
What should I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a potluck spread.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or swap items based on personal preference. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and creamy cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a tangy homemade dressing. This delightful salad is perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, offering a unique blend of textures and tastes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, this recipe is not just a side dish but a crowd-pleaser that complements any meal. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this Broccoli Salad with Bacon stands out as a delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 10–11 strips bacon
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- 1 lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the bacon on a baking sheet until crispy (about 20 minutes). Set aside to cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl with the dressing.
- Stir in cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, red onion, and most of the chopped bacon (reserve some for garnish).
- Combine well until everything is coated in the dressing. Chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
