Looking for a refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Dive into the delightful world of Cold Broccoli Salad with Bacon! This vibrant salad combines the crispness of fresh broccoli with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, creating a taste sensation that will have your taste buds dancing. With a creamy dressing and the added crunch of sunflower seeds, this dish is not just a side; it’s a star! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Keep reading to discover how to whip up this easy, crowd-pleasing salad in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water and then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Next, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds. Toss the ingredients together gently to ensure they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Once mixed, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled as a side dish or a light meal, and enjoy!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can wash and chop the broccoli ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to make the salad.
- Crispy Bacon: For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it slowly over medium heat. This will help render the fat and ensure an even crispness.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning of the dressing to your liking. A little extra salt or a dash more vinegar can make a big difference!
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.Enjoy crafting this delicious Cold Broccoli Salad with Bacon, and watch it become a favorite at your table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
