Are you on the lookout for a vibrant and delectable salad that will impress at any gathering or make a delightful addition to your family dinners? Look no further! This broccoli salad recipe is a harmonious combination of fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and sliced almonds, all brought together with a creamy dressing. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this sensational dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 1/3 lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
- 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Prep the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off any tough stems and chop the florets into bite-size pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds to the bowl with the broccoli.
- Mix Well: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dressing and chop the broccoli in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped pecans to the salad.
- Swap the Protein: Not a fan of bacon? Feel free to substitute it with grilled chicken or crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Play with Texture: Experiment with different textures by adding shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or even crunchy celery to the mix.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: While fresh broccoli is preferred for its crisp texture, you can use thawed frozen broccoli in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Q: How long does broccoli salad last in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, broccoli salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy it within 24-48 hours.
Q: Is this salad keto-friendly? A: This particular recipe contains sugar, dried cranberries, and mayonnaise, which may not align with strict keto guidelines. However, you can easily make it keto-friendly by using a sugar substitute like erythritol and opting for a sugar-free mayonnaise.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Absolutely! In fact, broccoli salad often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
- Replace Sugar: Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar.
- Choose Low-Carb Additions: Opt for unsweetened dried cranberries or reduce the amount used to minimize carb content.
- Mayonnaise Substitute: Look for a mayonnaise made with avocado oil or make your own using keto-approved ingredients.
- Adjust Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to keep carb intake in check, especially if you’re monitoring your macros closely.
This broccoli salad recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, potluck, or as a side dish for weeknight dinners, it’s sure to be a hit. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor the deliciousness!
Do you have any questions or suggestions about this recipe? Feel free to leave a comment below!
