Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Italian Chef Team

2 months ago

Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Broccoli salad is a classic side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. This version takes it to the next level by adding crispy bacon for a smoky, savory flavor that complements the fresh broccoli and creamy dressing perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible broccoli salad!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad

* **It’s quick and easy:** This recipe requires minimal cooking and prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
* **It’s packed with flavor:** The combination of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and a tangy creamy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **It’s versatile:** You can easily customize this salad to your liking by adding different nuts, seeds, or cheeses. See the variations section below for ideas!
* **It’s a crowd-pleaser:** Broccoli salad is always a hit at potlucks and barbecues, and this version with bacon is sure to be a standout.
* **It’s make-ahead friendly:** This salad actually tastes better after it sits for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can easily make it a day or two in advance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious broccoli salad:

* **Broccoli florets:** Fresh broccoli is essential for this recipe. You can use pre-cut florets or cut your own from a head of broccoli. Make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
* **Bacon:** Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries and the tanginess of the dressing. Use your favorite type of bacon.
* **Red onion:** Finely diced red onion adds a bit of bite and sharpness to the salad. You can substitute with sweet onion if you prefer a milder flavor.
* **Dried cranberries:** Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and chewiness to the salad. You can substitute with raisins or other dried fruits.
* **Sunflower seeds:** Sunflower seeds add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the salad. You can substitute with pumpkin seeds or other nuts.
* **Mayonnaise:** Mayonnaise forms the base of the creamy dressing. Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise.
* **Sour cream:** Sour cream adds tanginess and richness to the dressing. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
* **Apple cider vinegar:** Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity to the dressing, balancing out the sweetness of the cranberries and the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream.
* **Sugar:** A small amount of sugar helps to balance out the acidity of the vinegar and the tanginess of the sour cream. You can adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Salt and pepper:** Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the salad to taste.

Ingredient Measurements

Here are the specific measurements for each ingredient:

* 6 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment You’ll Need

* Large bowl
* Small bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Skillet or baking sheet for cooking bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious broccoli salad:

**Step 1: Cook the Bacon**

Cook the bacon until crispy. You can either fry it in a skillet over medium heat or bake it on a baking sheet in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, drain off any excess grease and crumble it into small pieces. Let it cool completely before adding it to the salad.

**Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli**

Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any tough stems.

**Step 3: Prepare the Dressing**

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

**Step 4: Combine the Ingredients**

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.

**Step 5: Add the Dressing**

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat all of the ingredients evenly.

**Step 6: Chill and Serve**

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad another toss and add more salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad

* **Don’t overcook the bacon:** Crispy bacon is key to this salad. Make sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy, but not burnt.
* **Cut the broccoli into small pieces:** This will make it easier to eat and allow the flavors to meld together better.
* **Don’t add the dressing too far in advance:** If you add the dressing too far in advance, the broccoli will start to soften and the salad will become soggy. It’s best to add the dressing shortly before serving, or at least within a few hours.
* **Adjust the sweetness to your liking:** If you prefer a less sweet salad, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing. You can also use a sugar substitute.
* **Use fresh ingredients:** Fresh broccoli and crispy bacon will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the salad.
* **Toast the sunflower seeds:** Toasting the sunflower seeds will enhance their nutty flavor and add a bit of extra crunch to the salad. To toast them, simply spread them out on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
* **Blanch the Broccoli (Optional):** Some people prefer their broccoli slightly softened. If so, blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well before adding them to the salad.

Variations and Substitutions

This broccoli salad recipe is very versatile and can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

* **Cheese:** Add shredded cheddar cheese, Colby Jack cheese, or crumbled feta cheese to the salad for extra flavor and richness.
* **Nuts:** Substitute the sunflower seeds with chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
* **Dried fruit:** Substitute the dried cranberries with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables such as chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the salad.
* **Dressing:** Try using a different type of dressing, such as a honey mustard dressing or a ranch dressing.
* **Vinegar:** Substitute the apple cider vinegar with white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or lemon juice.
* **Sweetener:** Use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of sugar.
* **Add grapes:** Halved red or green grapes add a juicy sweetness.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
* **Make it lighter:** Use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce the fat content.

Serving Suggestions

This broccoli salad is a perfect side dish for:

* **Barbecues:** Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or chicken.
* **Potlucks:** It’s a great dish to bring to potlucks because it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Picnics:** Pack it in a cooler and take it to a picnic.
* **Weeknight meals:** Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
* **Sandwiches:** Add a scoop of broccoli salad to your sandwich for extra flavor and texture.

It also pairs well with main courses like:

* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** The cool and creamy salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats perfectly.
* **Pulled Pork Sandwiches:** The sweetness of the cranberries and tanginess of the dressing cut through the richness of the pulled pork.
* **Hamburgers and Hot Dogs:** A classic combination for any cookout.
* **Vegetarian Options:** Serve alongside veggie burgers, lentil loaf, or a hearty salad.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This broccoli salad is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Simply combine all of the ingredients except for the dressing, cover the bowl, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve the salad, add the dressing and toss gently to coat.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly softer as it sits, but it will still be delicious.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: Approximately 300-400 (varies based on ingredient choices and portion size)
* Fat: 20-30g
* Protein: 8-12g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
* Fiber: 3-5g

**Note:** This is an approximate nutritional estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe Card

Here is a printable recipe card for your convenience:

**Recipe Name:** Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Chill time:** 30 minutes (minimum)

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the bacon until crispy. Crumble and let cool.
2. Wash and chop the broccoli florets.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, red onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Can I use frozen broccoli?** While fresh broccoli is preferred for its texture, you can use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the salad.
* **Can I make this salad without bacon?** Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. You might want to add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing to mimic some of the smoky flavor.
* **How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?** This salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, the broccoli may become slightly softer over time.
* **Can I freeze this salad?** Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate and the broccoli will become mushy upon thawing.
* **Is this salad gluten-free?** Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a gluten intolerance.
* **Can I use a different type of nut?** Yes, feel free to substitute the sunflower seeds with your favorite type of nut, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
* **Can I use honey instead of sugar?** Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.
* **What can I serve this with?** Broccoli salad with bacon is a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and potluck dishes.

This creamy broccoli salad with bacon is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s an easy-to-make dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. From the crisp broccoli to the savory bacon and the sweet cranberries, every bite is a burst of deliciousness. Whether you are looking for a quick side dish for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for a barbecue, this broccoli salad is the perfect choice. With the easy step-by-step instructions and variations provided, you can customize this recipe to your liking and create a truly unforgettable dish. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this irresistible creamy broccoli salad with bacon today!

Tags: Recipes