Broccoli salad is a versatile, refreshing, and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or a potluck, this easy-to-make salad is sure to be a hit. Combining the crunch of fresh broccoli with the savory taste of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the bite of red onion, this salad is brought together with a creamy dressing that enhances its flavors beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 2 12-ounce sachets of raw broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon (bacon bites can be used)
Optional Dressing Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Open the sachets of raw broccoli and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces if not already pre-cut. Include both the florets and some of the tender stems for added texture and flavor.
- Chop the Onion:
- Peel and finely chop the red onion into small, even pieces. This ensures that the onion flavor is well-distributed throughout the salad without being overpowering.
- Cook the Bacon:
- If you’re using raw bacon, cook it until crispy and then chop it into small pieces. Pre-cooked bacon bites can be used for convenience, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Grate the Cheese:
- Grate the cheddar cheese using a coarse grater. Freshly grated cheese offers better texture and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, red onion, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Prepare the Dressing (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Combine the Salad and Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything together until the broccoli is well-coated. Ensure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Chill the Salad:
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to slightly soften, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- Serve:
- Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir before serving. Enjoy your Easy Broccoli Salad as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Salad:
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Fresh ingredients are key to a vibrant and flavorful salad. Fresh broccoli has a bright color and crisp texture that significantly enhances the dish.
- Customize Your Salad:
- Feel free to add other ingredients to suit your taste. Some popular additions include sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, or even diced apples for a touch of sweetness and extra crunch.
- Healthier Version:
- For a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise in the dressing. This reduces the fat content while still providing a creamy texture and a slight tang.
- Make Ahead:
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop and meld together.
- Vegetarian Option:
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative. This retains the savory flavor while making the dish suitable for vegetarians.
This Easy Broccoli Salad is a delightful dish that balances freshness, creaminess, and savory flavors in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a refreshing change from traditional salads. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, taking it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. The combination of crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy, delicious, and nutritious broccoli salad and make it a staple in your recipe collection!
