Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon! This dish is vibrant and flavorful, featuring crispy bacon, dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and tangy cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering, from summer barbecues to Thanksgiving dinners. The combination of sweet and savory elements makes it a standout side that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip this up in about 35 minutes.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of bacon, cheese, and cranberries creates a delightful taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side for any meal or as a main dish for lunch.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of this Broccoli Salad with Bacon, let’s gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (for bacon)
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through broccoli and other ingredients, making preparation quick and safe.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending dressing ingredients smoothly to achieve the right consistency.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Broccoli Salad with Bacon:
Fresh 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)
Dressing Ingredients
- 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 much easier with no splatter. However you want to do it:
1. Cook 10-11 slices of bacon until crispy, then set aside on paper towels to cool.
2. Once cool, chop into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the bacon cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing:
1. In a large bowl, add 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise.
2. Add the zest from 1 lemon along with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
3. Mix in 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,
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
4. Whisk all dressing ingredients until well combined.
Step 3: Chop Your Broccoli
Add the salad ingredients to the bowl with the dressing:
– Start by chopping your broccoli using a chef’s knife into small florets. You can also chop up the stems if desired.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Add all prepared 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.
– Mix in most of the bacon, reserving some for topping later.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Stir everything together until well combined. This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. If chilling:
– 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 for about five days. Enjoy your tasty Broccoli Salad with Bacon!
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Broccoli Salad with Bacon is versatile and can complement many occasions. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, serving this salad can elevate your meal.
As a Side Dish
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, providing a crunchy contrast.
- Serve it alongside baked dishes, such as lasagna or casseroles, for a fresh touch.
At Potlucks
- Pack the salad in a large bowl to share. It’s easy to transport and always a hit!
- Place it next to other salads for a variety of flavors and textures.
For Family Gatherings
- Serve it in individual cups for a fun presentation. Guests will love having their own portion.
- Garnish with extra bacon on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
As Meal Prep
- Store portions in airtight containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Add extra toppings like nuts or seeds just before eating to keep them crunchy.
How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Perfecting this salad involves attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality bacon make a big difference in flavor.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust the sweetness or acidity based on your preference by modifying the sugar or lemon juice.
- Add Texture: Consider including other nuts or seeds for additional crunch.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit for at least an hour enhances the flavors as they meld together.
- Mix Before Serving: Stir well just before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly over all ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Pairing your Broccoli Salad with Bacon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and complements the salad’s crunch.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful contrast and is perfect for summer gatherings.
- Baked Beans: The smoky flavor of baked beans balances well with the savory notes of bacon.
- Garlic Bread: This classic side offers a buttery garlic flavor that pairs nicely with salads.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add heartiness and texture to your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory dishes.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds another layer of crunch while enhancing the overall meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Skipping the bacon crispness: Undercooking the bacon can lead to a chewy texture. Cook it until crispy for the best flavor and crunch.
- Not balancing flavors: If you skip adding acidity, like lemon juice, your salad may taste flat. Ensure you include all dressing ingredients for a well-rounded flavor.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make it soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Ignoring broccoli size: Large florets can make for awkward bites. Chop broccoli into smaller pieces for better mixing and eating.
- Serving immediately after preparation: Serving right away may not allow flavors to meld. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for an enhanced taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients. It affects texture upon thawing.
Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until just warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe that might help clarify things further.
What makes this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe special?
This recipe combines crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and tangy dressing, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Can I use fresh broccoli?
Yes! Fresh broccoli is key for the best texture and taste in your salad.
How long does this salad last?
The Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe lasts about 5 days when stored properly in the fridge.
Can I customize my Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or other veggies like bell peppers or carrots based on your preferences.
Is this salad suitable for large gatherings?
Yes! This salad is perfect for parties, barbecues, or holiday gatherings as it serves multiple people easily.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize it to fit your taste preferences by adding different ingredients or adjusting the dressing. Give it a try; you’re sure to impress family and friends!
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, a delightful blend of crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and tangy cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. With its balance of sweet and savory ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your gatherings.
Ingredients
- 10–11 strips of bacon (cooked)
- 2 heads broccoli (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 mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
- 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
- Cook the bacon until crispy; chop into small pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: mayonnaise/Miracle Whip, lemon juice/zest, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, mustard, and cayenne.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and mix with bacon pieces in a large bowl.
- Add cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and red onion to the bowl.
- Pour dressing over the salad and mix well.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
