Broccoli Bacon Salad
This broccoli bacon salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines fresh, crunchy vegetables with crispy bacon and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or as a refreshing side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 8 ounces bacon, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and crumble once cooled.
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender-crisp, then drain and cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, crumbled bacon, bell pepper, red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Helpful Tips
Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance for meal prep or potlucks. The flavors continue to develop as it sits in the refrigerator.
Keep it crispy: If you prefer a crunchier texture, add the sunflower seeds or almonds just before serving rather than mixing them in earlier, as they can soften over time.
Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to swap the dried fruit or nuts based on your preferences. Dried cranberries, pecans, or walnuts all work wonderfully in this salad.
Storage Instructions
Store the broccoli bacon salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad keeps well and is ideal for preparing several days before serving. If you notice the salad becoming too wet, simply drain off excess dressing before serving.
Common Questions
Can I make this salad without mayonnaise? Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a vinaigrette made with olive oil and vinegar instead.
Is it necessary to blanch the broccoli? Blanching softens the broccoli slightly while keeping it crisp. If you prefer raw broccoli, you can skip this step, though the texture will be firmer.
What can I use instead of bacon? Turkey bacon, tempeh bacon, or even crispy chickpeas work as alternatives if you prefer a different protein option.