Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon! This one is stuffed with bacon, cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and tangy homemade dressing. It is easy to make and is a huge crowd pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue or even to serve at Thanksgiving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of savory bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing creates a taste sensation that everyone will love.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be made in just 35 minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a holiday gathering, this salad fits right in.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and cranberries, this salad offers health benefits while still being indulgent.
- Great for Leftovers: This salad keeps well in the fridge for about 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Broccoli Salad with Bacon, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without spilling.
- Chef’s knife: This tool is perfect for chopping broccoli into small florets, ensuring even bites.
- Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking bacon in the oven, which reduces mess and splatter.
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 easier and results in less splatter.
Cook 10-11 slices of bacon until crispy.
Set aside on paper towels to cool.
Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
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Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the bacon cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR Mayonnaise
– 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
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth.
Step 3: Chop Broccoli
Add the ingredients for the salad to the bowl with the dressing.
Use a chef’s knife to chop your broccoli into small florets.
You can save and chop up the stems if desired; otherwise, leave them out.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In your large bowl:
Add all chopped broccoli.
Add:
– 1 cup dried cranberries,
– 1/3 cup sunflower seeds,
– 1 cup cheddar cheese,
– 1/3 cup chopped red onion,
– Most of the cooked bacon (reserve some for topping).
Step 5: Mix 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 well for about five days.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
Serving your Broccoli Salad with Bacon can elevate any meal and impress your guests. This versatile salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for different occasions.
At a Summer Barbecue
- Pair the salad with grilled meats like chicken or burgers for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve it chilled to balance the heat from the grill.
For Thanksgiving Dinner
- Include it alongside traditional dishes such as turkey and stuffing for a colorful plate.
- Use festive serving bowls to enhance the holiday spirit.
As a Potluck Dish
- Transport it in a sealed container to keep it fresh until serving.
- Garnish with extra bacon bits right before serving for added crunch.
As a Light Lunch
- Enjoy it on its own or with whole-grain crackers for a quick meal.
- Add extra cheese or nuts for additional flavor and texture.
How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
To ensure your Broccoli Salad with Bacon is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crisp bacon provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid wilted or overcooked vegetables.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences. More lemon juice or less sugar can make a significant difference.
- Add Crunch: Incorporate additional textures by adding chopped apples or bell peppers along with the existing ingredients.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for at least an hour allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to five days.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
When planning your meal, complementing your Broccoli Salad with Bacon can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some excellent side dish suggestions.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast pairs wonderfully with the salad’s crunchiness.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and flavor that balances the savory elements of the salad.
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad brings creaminess that contrasts nicely with broccoli’s crisp texture.
- Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans provide an excellent counterpoint to this dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw enhances the overall crunch factor while introducing different flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread serves as a hearty addition that everyone loves, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Broccoli Salad with Bacon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
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Using Overcooked Broccoli: Overcooking broccoli can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, blanch the broccoli briefly in boiling water and then plunge it into ice water to maintain its crunch.
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Skipping the Dressing Mix: Not mixing the dressing ingredients well can result in uneven flavor. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and combined for a balanced taste throughout the salad.
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Not Chilling Enough: Serving the salad immediately might not allow the flavors to meld properly. Chill for at least an hour before serving for the best results.
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Forgetting to Reserve Bacon: If you add all the bacon at once, you miss out on that crispy topping. Reserve some crispy bacon bits for garnish right before serving.
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Ignoring Ingredient Substitutions: Using different cheeses or nuts may change the flavor profile significantly. Experiment with various ingredients but keep in mind how they will complement each other.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Broccoli Salad with Bacon will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of fresh ingredients like broccoli and cheese.
- If necessary, consider freezing only the dressing separately and mix it fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
-
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10 minutes until slightly heated through.
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Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
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Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Broccoli Salad with Bacon:
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
You can use turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas as a vegetarian alternative. Both options offer crunch without sacrificing too much flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to my Broccoli Salad with Bacon?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for extra color and nutrition.
How do I make this salad healthier?
To create a healthier version of your Broccoli Salad with Bacon, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or Miracle Whip, which reduces calories while adding protein.
How long does this salad last?
The Broccoli Salad with Bacon stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
The Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings alike. You can customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits, making it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple at your meals!
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with this Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Packed with crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy cheese, this salad is a showstopper at any gathering. Tossed in a tangy homemade dressing, it’s both nutritious and indulgent, making it the perfect side dish for summer barbecues or festive holiday meals. With easy preparation in under 35 minutes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it fresh or as leftovers; this salad stays delicious for days!
Ingredients
- 10–11 strips cooked bacon
- 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 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- 1 lemon zest
- 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
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crispy in the oven; cool and chop into pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl with dressing.
- Add cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, red onion, and most of the bacon; mix well.
- Chill for at least an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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