If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish to accompany your meal or serve as a standalone delight, then look no further than our Fresh Broccoli Salad recipe. Packed with crunchy broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy red onion, and creamy cheddar cheese, this salad offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, potluck dinner, or simply craving a healthy and delicious side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s dive in and discover how to create this irresistible salad sensation!
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Produce:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 head of broccoli, rinsed and cut into bite-size pieces
Condiments:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
Dairy:
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Whisk Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, raisins or dried cranberries, sliced red onion, and crumbled bacon.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad as a delicious finishing touch.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy the freshness and crunchiness of this delightful creation!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite add-ins. Try adding toasted nuts, sunflower seeds, diced bell peppers, or sliced carrots for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it Vegan: To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply omit the bacon and cheese. You can also use a dairy-free mayonnaise substitute.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute such as honey or maple syrup.
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content of the salad by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this salad in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. However, it’s best to wait until just before serving to add the shredded cheese to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Q: How long will this salad last in the refrigerator? A: This salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter dressing. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust the seasoning as needed.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses in this salad. Gouda, feta, or blue cheese would all be delicious options.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
Keto-Friendly Variation:
- Substitute the sugar in the dressing with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Omit the raisins or dried cranberries to reduce the carb content.
- Use a mayonnaise made with avocado oil or olive oil to keep it keto-friendly.
Low-Carb Variation:
- Reduce or omit the sugar in the dressing to lower the carb content.
- Replace the raisins or dried cranberries with chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Serve the salad with a low-carb protein such as grilled shrimp or salmon.
In conclusion, our Fresh Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to please. With its crisp broccoli, savory bacon, sweet tomatoes, and tangy dressing, it’s a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. So, give this recipe a try and add a burst of freshness to your next meal!
